Alonso under mounting pressure as Real Madrid face crucial clash with Manchester City

Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso is facing increasing uncertainty over his future after the club’s shock 2-0 home defeat to Celta Vigo, a result that has prompted internal discussions among senior figures at the Bernabéu. 

The loss, which included red cards for defenders Fran Garcia and Álvaro Carreras, has left Alonso under intense scrutiny ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League meeting with Manchester City.

Just six weeks ago, Real Madrid were enjoying the high of a Clasico victory over Barcelona, extending their lead at the top of La Liga to five points. 

However, a difficult run of form has seen Los Blancos collect only six points from their last five league matches, and Sunday’s defeat marked Celta Vigo’s first win at the Bernabéu in nearly two decades. 

Madrid now sit four points behind league leaders Barcelona and could fall to third if Villarreal win their game in hand. Alonso admitted the result was “a significant setback,” citing injuries and a lack of sharpness.

Madrid’s defensive crisis has further complicated the situation. The team is currently without Éder Militão, Dani Carvajal, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ferland Mendy, and several other first-team players. 

Alonso noted that the disrupted lineup affected their game plan, saying the squad struggled to react despite showing better fight after going down to ten men. The coach acknowledged the frustration from the fans but insisted the team must “show a different side on Wednesday.”

Senior club officials, including Florentino Pérez and José Ángel Sánchez, have held conversations regarding Alonso’s position. 

While the club is reportedly eager to continue investing in the long-term project, sources suggest there is no guarantee he will remain in charge if Real Madrid lose to Manchester City in the Champions League. 

Concerns have also been raised about the squad’s connection with Alonso’s ideas and the team’s recent performances.

Potential short-term replacements mentioned include Real Madrid Castilla coach Álvaro Arbeloa and club legend Zinedine Zidane, though it remains unclear whether Zidane would consider returning.

Despite the mounting pressure, Alonso has urged unity and calm, emphasizing that the season is long and recoverable. He stressed the importance of collective responsibility, saying the current difficulties must be faced “together, through thick and thin.”