Real Madrid: Xabi Alonso’s Future in Jeopardy After City Defeat

Real Madrid faced yet another setback at the Santiago Bernabéu, suffering a 2-1 defeat to Manchester City in a crucial Champions League clash. The match, which many viewed as pivotal for coach Xabi Alonso’s future, started on a positive note with Rodrygo Goes finally breaking his goal drought. However, Manchester City quickly responded with goals from Nico O’Reilly and a penalty converted by Erling Haaland, sealing the win.

This latest defeat comes just days after a disappointing loss to Celta Vigo, further intensifying scrutiny on Alonso’s position. Despite missing several key players due to injury, Real Madrid displayed resilience and intensity that had been lacking in recent weeks. Rodrygo’s early goal instilled hope among the fans, and for much of the match, Los Blancos fought hard against one of Europe’s elite teams. While the outcome was not what they desired, this performance suggested that the squad is not entirely lost under Alonso’s leadership.

Is This the End for Xabi Alonso?

The question looms large: has Xabi Alonso reached the end of his tenure? The coach entered this decisive fixture without key starters, yet his team showed a fighting spirit that contrasted sharply with their previous performances. Although critics anticipated a rout, Real Madrid’s effort was commendable. They pressed effectively and demonstrated a willingness to counterattack. This was not a side devoid of direction; rather, they appeared capable of rising to challenges presented by top-tier opponents.

Kylian Mbappé’s Fitness Concerns

The absence of Kylian Mbappé due to a muscle strain was another blow for Real Madrid. His fitness status had been a source of speculation leading up to the match. Although he made the bench as a sign of support for his coach, his lack of match readiness limited his impact. This opened up opportunities for Rodrygo on the right flank, who flourished in Mbappé’s absence, showcasing his potential and creating multiple chances for his teammates. However, both Gonzalo García and Vinícius Júnior struggled to make an impression in their roles.

Tactical Decisions Under Scrutiny

Alonso’s tactical choices have come under fire recently, particularly regarding player positioning. The decision to deploy Raúl Asencio at right-back against Celta Vigo raised eyebrows given Fede Valverde‘s public complaints about being played out of position. Against Manchester City, Alonso opted for Valverde at right-back—a choice influenced by injuries but still pivotal in shaping the team’s dynamics. While this move allowed some defensive stability, it highlighted Alonso’s ongoing struggle to find an optimal formation amid squad limitations.

The future remains uncertain for Real Madrid as they navigate through these turbulent times. Only club president Florentino Pérez knows what lies ahead for Alonso—whether he will receive more time or be replaced by an interim solution such as Álvaro Arbeloa remains to be seen. The team is at a crossroads reminiscent of the 2018-19 season when early promise faded rapidly.

Rodrygo’s resurgence offers a glimmer of hope amidst turmoil; he was dynamic throughout the match and could be crucial moving forward. With Real Madrid precariously hanging onto their top-eight position in the Champions League standings by goal difference, upcoming fixtures against Monaco and Benfica will be critical. Slip-ups are no longer an option if they hope to secure their place among Europe’s elite.

As injuries continue to plague the squad, every match becomes increasingly vital—not just for results but for the very future of Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid.