Real Madrid: A Crisis Deepens After City Defeat

Real Madrid finds itself in a troubling downward spiral following their defeat to Manchester City. The loss has compounded existing doubts within the squad, raising questions about their resilience as they approach the critical final matches of the group stage. With two pivotal fixtures against Monaco at the Bernabéu and a showdown with Mourinho’s Benfica on the horizon, the stakes could not be higher. The current situation is precarious, and the outcome of these matches will determine whether the season tilts toward redemption or disaster.

The recent performance against City was yet another disappointment for a team that had hoped to regain its footing after a narrow victory at San Mamés. Unfortunately, that win appears to have been a mere blip on an otherwise concerning radar. Since their last encounter with Barcelona in the Clásico, Real Madrid has struggled, managing only two victories in their last eight outings—accompanied by three draws and three losses. This alarming trend has left fans and analysts alike questioning the team’s direction under Xabi Alonso, who is now facing mounting pressure.

Home Ground No Longer an Advantage

The return to the Santiago Bernabéu was anticipated as a chance for the players to reconnect with their passionate supporters and reclaim their home advantage. However, this has not materialized; instead, the iconic stadium has become a site of frustration for both players and fans. Two consecutive defeats at home—first against Celta Vigo and then against Pep Guardiola‘s City—have shattered the fortress mentality that once defined this venue. Last season, Madrid did not suffer their first home defeat until March; now, they have already matched their disappointing tally from 2019 of three home losses by mid-January.

Challenges on Multiple Fronts

For Alonso, navigating this turbulent period is becoming increasingly complex. While there have been signs of improvement compared to their dismal performance against Celta, these changes are insufficient to mask deeper issues within the squad. The relentless fixture schedule and persistent injuries are taking a toll on player fitness and morale. More critically, an emotional cloud hangs over the team stemming from Vinícius Júnior’s controversial substitution during the Clásico—a wound that seems to widen with each passing week.

The dressing room remains united in support of their manager, but the collective spirit is slipping into dangerous territory. The upcoming trio of matches will be crucial; a series of victories could breathe new life into a beleaguered squad, while further setbacks could plunge them into a full-blown crisis. As it stands, one truth is evident: Real Madrid must do better if they wish to salvage their season. The next few games will be decisive.