Real Madrid: Crisis Deepens After City Defeat, Alonso Under Fire

Real Madrid suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Manchester City in the Champions League, marking their second consecutive loss at the Santiago Bernabéu and intensifying their current crisis. Despite the scoreline, the match’s dynamics suggested a different narrative, as the Madrid squad displayed promising signs early on. Under Xabi Alonso‘s tactical guidance, they started brightly, with Rodrygo opening the scoring within the first half-hour. However, individual errors and significant technical deficiencies in both defense and attack ultimately derailed their ambitions.

This defeat is part of a troubling trend for Real Madrid, who have now secured only two victories in their last eight matches, alongside three draws and three losses. The team’s struggles raise questions about their performance consistency and tactical execution, especially as they aim to reclaim their status among Europe’s elite. Thibaut Courtois commented post-match, stating that “the game plan was good,” indicating that the players might be failing to execute Alonso’s strategies effectively.

Support for Alonso Amidst Criticism

Thierry Henry, renowned football analyst and former star player, has publicly defended Alonso during this challenging period. He emphasized that judging a coach after just six months is premature. “It seems absurd to me that a coach can be under pressure after only six months in charge,” Henry remarked. He acknowledged the high expectations at clubs like Real Madrid but insisted on giving Alonso more time to develop his vision for the team.

Henry elaborated on the complexities of managing a club of Real Madrid’s stature, where success demands not only tactical acumen but also adept management of a talented squad. “You have to be more than just a manager; you must engage with the players and create a harmonious environment,” he added, highlighting the need for patience from both fans and management.

Upcoming Challenges for Real Madrid

The pressure on Alonso is mounting as he prepares for a crucial La Liga clash against Deportivo Alavés this Sunday. While some analysts believe that the performance against City was acceptable and could serve as a springboard for improvement, others warn that failing to secure a solid result against Alavés could lead to renewed speculation about Alonso’s future at the club.

Spanish journalist Guillem Balague shared his perspective on CBS Sports, suggesting that while the team showed potential in their recent match, they must perform consistently well against Alavés to silence critics. “If they play like they did against Celta or Girona, we could hear rumors again about Alonso’s tenure being over,” Balague stated. He stressed that patience is essential for Alonso’s project, which requires time to foster synergy between him and his players.

As Real Madrid navigates this turbulent period, questions linger about whether the board will afford Alonso the necessary time to implement his vision effectively. With mounting pressure and high expectations at one of football’s most prestigious clubs, every match becomes pivotal in determining not just results but also the future direction of this storied team.