The head coach has come under mounting pressure at the Bernabeu after a disappointing sequence of performances.
Spanish media reports had claimed Alonso could be dismissed if Madrid suffered defeat against Manchester City in Wednesday’s Champions League clash. ..Continue Reading
That scenario unfolded as Pep Guardiola’s team produced an impressive turnaround victory.
Rodrygo opened the scoring for Madrid, but strikes from Nico O’Reilly and Erling Haaland swung the match in City’s favour.
When questioned about the scrutiny surrounding his manager, Bellingham made it clear the dressing room remains united behind him.
He said: “100%. The manager has been great. I personally have a great relationship with him and I know a lot of the boys do too.
“After that run of draws we had some great conversations internally and felt we’d put that form behind us but the last couple of games. No one is downing tools, no one complaining or moaning. We take it on the chin and keep fighting.”
He continued: “We’re still trying to work it out within the changing room regardless of what goes on outside. We know that’s not helpful.
“One thing is how we’re managing games. Certain points where we have to suffer it feels like we always concede and it puts us on the back foot and makes us have to play a way we don’t want to.
“But in the changing room we have what we need to turn it around, we need maybe a bit of luck or maybe something we need to discuss internally. I have faith this season isn’t over just because we’re in a bad run of form.”
Bellingham was not the only Madrid player to publicly back the under-fire coach. Goalscorer Rodrygo also addressed the situation, dismissing much of the talk surrounding Alonso’s future as unfounded.
Reflecting on the midweek loss, he said: “We stand with Xabi. Many things being said are lies.”
Rodrygo visibly demonstrated his support during the match, running to the sidelines to celebrate with Alonso after scoring.
Explaining that moment, he added: “Hug with Xabi? It’s a difficult time for the players and everyone, and I wanted to show that we’re behind our manager.”
Alonso, who previously played for both Real Madrid and Liverpool, only took charge of the club in the summer after an outstanding period with Bayer Leverkusen.
He agreed to a three-year deal upon his arrival at the Bernabeu and has also addressed the speculation surrounding his role, stating that any decision regarding his future is out of his hands.
During his post-match press conference, he said: “My future? This doesn’t depend on me. I’m focused on our next match.”
Alonso will be hoping his side can respond positively at the weekend when Real travel to face Alaves, with a victory potentially reducing the deficit to league leaders Barcelona to just one point.
Leave a Reply