Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso on future – ‘We’re all in this together, I have the players’ support’

Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has told the media that he feels that there is a united front at the Bernabeu, amid plenty of talk over his future in the dugout. Following just two wins in seven La Liga matches, there is already talk over who might replace him in the coming weeks.

Their 2-0 defeat to Celta Vigo has swung Los Blancos into crisis mode, and the unanimous reports coming out of the Spanish capital is that defeat to Manchester City on Wednesday night could see him dismissed as manager. Alonso preferred to ignore the speculation over his future.

“It’s a big day, a chance to keep progressing. It’ll be a Champions League night atmosphere. The fans know what kind of match we’re in for.”

‘Yes’ – Alonso feels backing of the players

On a number of occasions, Alonso was asked about his relationship with the players, how he was dealing with the speculation, and whether he felt he had the necessary backing from above and below.

“My focus is on the game tomorrow, that’s what we can control,” he explained, and said bluntly ‘yes’, when asked if he had the full support of the dressing room. “Communication is constant, we’re all in this together,” he explained on whether he felt the backing of the Real Madrid board.

“When you coach Real Madrid, you are prepared for all kinds of situations, and I’m focused on the game tomorrow,” he said when asked about speculation over names that could take over from him.

‘We’re all in this together’ – Alonso

Alonso was determined to push focus onto the game against City, noting that like any game, he and his staff had carried out an analysis of their loss to Celta Vigo.

“We’re mentally prepared to face what lies ahead. Everyone is convinced we can win tomorrow. We have to play with good rhythm and intensity. And there’s no doubt about that.”

“After the Celta game, as always, we’ll draw our conclusions. Our only focus is on City and the Champions League. The atmosphere will be different.”

The Basque manager assured that he was content with the effort he was seeing for the players, and asked for optimism from his players.

“This is a team, we’re all in this together. When you’re the Real Madrid coach, you’re prepared. I’m really looking forward to what’s to come, and that starts tomorrow. To turn things around, which is understandable. All we’re thinking about is City. In football, for better or for worse, things can turn around quickly.”

After several clashes with star figures at Real Madrid, including Fede Valverde and Vinicius Junior, Alonso’s relationship with the dressing room has been brought sharply into focus. Following a strong win in El Clasico, results have fallen just as sharply, and Alonso’s future is now being assessed on a game-by-game basis.

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