Xabi Alonso has refuted “rumours” regarding unrest within the Real Madrid squad, asserting that the dressing room remains “solid” following a return to form this week.
Real Madrid secured a thrilling 4-3 victory against Olympiacos in the Champions League on Wednesday, ending a disappointing streak of three winless matches that had placed Alonso under scrutiny and sparked speculations about tensions between him and key players.
Despite the pressure, Madrid approached this weekend’s LaLiga fixture — away against Girona on Sunday — sitting atop the league table.
“I’ve always felt the team is united, and we all share the same objective: to finish the season with a shot at winning everything,” Alonso stated in a news conference on Saturday.
“We stand together through both the highs and lows. We maintain a strong connection daily. In spite of the rumours and what some may claim, we are quite solid internally.”
Real Madrid began the season strongly, but a tough November featuring defeats to Liverpool at Anfield and draws against Rayo Vallecano and Elche led to conjecture about internal issues.
Following the Olympiacos match, star forward Kylian Mbappé emphasized the need for players to “protect” Alonso, while Vinícius Júnior embraced the coach on the pitch after the final whistle.
“We’ve experienced some good phases,” Alonso acknowledged. “We require that dominance, control, continuity, and consistency. Our defensive play has improved, but I am not satisfied with certain elements, particularly the goals we’ve conceded in recent matches. We are still a work in progress.”
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Alonso confirmed that centre-backs Antonio Rüdiger and Éder Militão would be returning for the match against Girona, whereas Raúl Asencio remains doubtful, and Dean Huijsen could be fit for the match against Athletic Club on December 3.
Alonso commended Jude Bellingham, highlighting that the England midfielder “possesses a desire to learn and to enhance his efficiency,” and he also defended Trent Alexander-Arnold‘s performances thus far.
“We need Trent,” Alonso remarked. “It’s his first year, and adjusting to a new environment is natural. He holds high expectations for himself, and we must provide him support during this significant transition.”