Xabi Alonso insists his focus is solely on Wednesday's Champions League clash against Manchester City, but the Real Madrid coach knows his job is on the line. Los Blancos host City at the Santiago Bernabéu after a run of just one win in five La Liga games, culminating in a dismal 2-0 home defeat to Celta on Sunday. Crisis talks were held late into the night, and while no decision has been made, patience is wearing thin.
Alonso, who took over in the summer, has seen his position weaken amid a disconnect with key players. After taking Vinícius Júnior off in a previous match, the Brazilian stormed down the tunnel, and the club's hierarchy remained silent rather than backing the manager. Federico Valverde has also voiced frustrations, and there have been whispers about excessive video sessions and instructions.
Ahead of the City match, Alonso said: 'In football, for better or worse, things change quickly.' He acknowledged the pressure but insisted his mind is only on the game. Real Madrid have lost two of their last three home matches, and another defeat could spell the end for the 44-year-old. However, midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni defended Alonso, stating: 'If we lost 2-0 to Celta, there's a problem that's on us – it's not the coach's fault.'
The match against Manchester City is the 28th of Alonso's tenure and could be his last at a club where a crisis is never far away. Despite early season success, including a Clásico win, the cracks have widened. Alonso's future at the Bernabéu hangs in the balance as he seeks to turn around the anger with a vital Champions League result.
