A Club Under Strain

Real Madrid find themselves in unfamiliar territory, enduring a troubling run that has thrust Xabi Alonso into the spotlight far earlier than anyone anticipated. Appointed in the summer on a three-year deal to succeed Carlo Ancelotti, the former Bayer Leverkusen coach arrived with excitement and expectation. Now, just six months on, he is already fighting for his future.

Sunday’s 2–0 defeat at the Bernabeu to Celta Vigo was the latest setback in a worrying sequence of one win from five league matches. The slip has left Real Madrid four points adrift of leaders Barcelona, heightening the importance of Wednesday’s Champions League meeting with Manchester City. A positive result in Europe may determine whether Alonso continues in the role.

Speaking ahead of the tie, Alonso attempted to project unity, insisting that the club is aligned through difficult times. “We are all on the same boat. We have to go through positive and negative times,” he said. He emphasised the significance of the Bernabeu crowd, adding that reconnecting emotionally with supporters is essential. “We need to keep our eyes open to have that energy so the Bernabeu enjoys what it sees. That emotional bond is very important tomorrow.”

The head coach also revealed that communication with the board remains strong despite the pressure building around him. “Communication is constant. We have unity, we are all together in this, I have a good relationship with them.”

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Dressing Room, Boardroom and a Fight for Time

Reports in Spain suggest Alonso’s position is already under severe scrutiny, with defeat to Manchester City potentially bringing his tenure to an abrupt halt. Though those close to the situation describe his chances of survival as slim, the coach remains publicly calm.

Last week, Alonso held talks with club president Florentino Perez. While the content of the discussion remains private, the timing underlines just how swiftly pressure has mounted. Yet the head coach refuses to consider alternatives or outside speculation, focusing solely on preparation for City.

When asked about the possibility of returning one day to the Premier League, Alonso acknowledged a personal connection to Liverpool. “Of course there is a bond with my former club, but for now this is my place. In the future you never know what might happen.” However, he was unequivocal that his current priority is Real Madrid’s immediate revival, not hypothetical futures or potential replacements such as Zinedine Zidane or Alvaro Arbeloa.

“When you are the coach of Real Madrid you need to be ready to face these situations and I only have the game in my mind,” he said.

Injury Setbacks and Tactical Challenges

Complicating Alonso’s task is a growing injury crisis, particularly in defence. Eder Militao, who had only just returned from a groin injury, tore his hamstring on Sunday and faces another spell out. He joins Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dani Carvajal, Dean Huijsen and David Alaba on the sidelines.

Up front, the situation is marginally brighter thanks to Kylian Mbappe, the standout performer of Madrid’s season so far. With 26 goals including nine in the Champions League, the French forward has carried much of the attacking burden. Yet he, too, arrives with concerns. Mbappe missed open training on Tuesday, with reports suggesting a fractured finger. Nonetheless, he is still widely expected to feature against City.

His presence will be vital against a Premier League side already hitting form in Europe’s league phase. Madrid need goals, leadership and belief, and Mbappe has delivered all three consistently since his arrival.

Rebuilding Trust With the Supporters

Spanish reporters noted that one of the most telling moments of Alonso’s pre-match conference came when he addressed the strained relationship with the fans. The Bernabeu faithful have grown increasingly disillusioned, frustrated by performances that lack the intensity, control and flair historically associated with the club.

Sunday’s defeat to a mid-table Celta Vigo side, at home, was met with audible dissent. Alonso understands that restoring faith is not optional. It is a requirement for survival.

“We need to rebuild that emotional connection,” the coach said, stressing that atmosphere and team identity must improve together. His words were echoed by midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni, who stood firmly behind his manager. The French international admitted that defensive absences have created gaps but insisted accountability lies with the players. “It is up to the team to unite, step up and defend together,” he said.

The message was clear: the dressing room is backing the boss, and the squad recognises its own responsibility in lifting performances.

Madrid at a Crossroads

Real Madrid are accustomed to turbulence, but rarely does the club face so many simultaneous challenges: poor domestic form, a mounting injury list, unrest among supporters and a coach still bedding in. The boardroom may publicly project patience, yet the margin for error is slim at a club where immediate success is always demanded.

Alonso’s vision for Madrid is long term, built on structure, discipline and collective effort. But he may not be given the luxury of time unless results turn quickly. The meeting with Manchester City provides both an opportunity and a threat. A victory could reinvigorate belief across the club. A defeat could accelerate conversations that many hoped would not be necessary so soon.

For now, Alonso remains steadfast. Focused. Determined. A man fighting not only for results but for the right to continue shaping a new era for Real Madrid. Whether he will still be in position to do so by next week may hinge on what happens under the Bernabeu lights on Wednesday night.