Xabi Alonso: “Referee decisions have thrown us off course

In the wake of a disappointing defeat at the Santiago Bernabéu, Xabi Alonso emerged visibly frustrated, reflecting on his team’s struggles against Celta Vigo. The Spanish coach expressed his disappointment not only with the loss but also with the impact of referee decisions, which he believes have contributed to the team’s current woes. “Everyone is upset. This was not the match or result we wanted. From the beginning, Éder Militão‘s injury has affected us deeply, and it has taken a toll on our morale,” Alonso admitted during the post-match press conference.

The match saw Real Madrid falter at home, continuing a troubling trend this season. Despite having a strong squad that includes talents like Vinícius Júnior and Kylian Mbappé, the team has struggled to find consistency. The absence of Militão, a key defensive player, was palpable as Celta exploited gaps in Madrid’s backline. This defeat marks another setback in a season where expectations are high, and fans are eager for silverware.

Referee Decisions Under Scrutiny

Alonso was particularly vocal about the officiating during the match, stating that “the decisions have disoriented us.” His comments reflect a growing concern among players and fans alike regarding the fairness of officiating in La Liga. The coach’s frustration was evident as he called for more clarity and consistency in refereeing standards. “We need to focus on what we can control, but it’s hard when external factors influence our performance,” he added.

Tactical Adjustments Needed

Following the injury to Militão, Alonso has been forced to make tactical adjustments that have yet to yield positive results. The team’s defensive frailties were exposed against Celta, leading to a lack of confidence among defenders. With upcoming matches critical for their title aspirations, Alonso must quickly find solutions to stabilize his squad. The integration of younger players like Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni into key roles could be vital moving forward.

The pressure is mounting on Alonso and his coaching staff as they prepare for their next fixtures. With Real Madrid sitting in a precarious position in La Liga standings, every match will be crucial in determining their fate this season. Can Alonso rally his squad and turn their fortunes around? Only time will tell.