The Digest:
Xabi Alonso faces a defining Champions League test against Manchester City as pressure mounts following Real Madrid’s slump in La Liga. Rooted in the storm of managerial uncertainty, defeat could end his tenure amid reports of locker-room tension, injuries, and potential successors already being lined up.
Key Points
- Real Madrid are second in La Liga, four points behind Barcelona, after an inconsistent form.
- A late-night crisis meeting was held following Sunday’s 2–0 home loss to Celta Vigo.
- Alonso’s relationship with key players has reportedly frayed, affecting his authority.
- Injuries, including Eder Militão’s hamstring issue, compound the team’s challenges.
- Vinícius Júnior’s visible frustration during a Clásico win earlier this season signaled unrest.
- A loss to Manchester City could trigger Alonso’s dismissal, with Zidane and Klopp linked.
- The club views the UCL clash as Alonso’s “last chance” to turn things around
Sources: Marca, El Mundo, Madrid Zone (X), Club Reports
