Real Madrid's leadership has publicly affirmed its unwavering support for head coach Xabi Alonso, amidst emerging reports of a dressing room divide. The Spanish giants are standing firm behind their manager, even as certain high-profile players are said to be questioning his methods.
The Source of the Tension
Since his arrival at the Bernabéu in the summer of 2025, Xabi Alonso has faced the immense challenge of following in the footsteps of Carlo Ancelotti. While his pedigree, built on a stunning Bundesliga triumph with Bayer Leverkusen, is unquestioned, his early tenure has hit a rocky patch. Recent results have seen Real Madrid's grip on the La Liga title loosen, and the team suffered its first Champions League defeat of the campaign earlier this month.
The situation has been exacerbated by Alonso's management of star forward Vinicius Jr. The Brazilian, a pivotal figure for Los Blancos who is also in the midst of contract negotiations, has been substituted on multiple occasions. This has reportedly led to visible frustration and outbursts from Vinicius, creating an awkward dynamic within the squad.
Club Hierarchy Draws a Line
In response to the murmurs of discontent, the Real Madrid board has made its position crystal clear. Having handed Alonso a three-year contract, the club is not wavering. According to reports from Marca, the message from the top is unequivocal: 'he is the boss'. The hierarchy has endorsed Alonso's more contentious decisions, which include his handling of Vinicius and several tactical shifts.
This internal power struggle appears to have created factions within the team. Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo suggests that players including Fede Valverde, Brahim Diaz, Rodrygo, and Ferland Mendy have concerns about the new coach's approach. However, Alonso is not without his supporters. The influential Kylian Mbappe, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, and young talent Arda Guler are all counted among his backers in the dressing room.
Liverpool Links Linger in the Background
Complicating the narrative are the persistent links between Xabi Alonso and a potential return to Liverpool. The 44-year-old was a leading candidate to replace Jurgen Klopp at Anfield, a club where he also enjoyed Champions League success as a player. While the Reds ultimately appointed Arne Slot, Alonso's legacy there keeps speculation alive.
This was echoed by his former Liverpool teammate, Igor Biscan, who told Boylesports: "Xabi Alonso as Liverpool manager? I think that's always a possibility. If he keeps on doing what he's doing... Who wouldn't want to have a manager like him?" The Champions League defeat that Alonso suffered earlier this month came on a poignant return to Anfield, further fuelling the connection.
Despite the internal challenges, Real Madrid's season remains on track. The team is still poised to qualify in the Champions League and, despite two consecutive draws, holds a one-point lead over Barcelona in the fiercely contested La Liga title race.
