Image Credits: Imago Images
Xabi Alonso’s turbulent reign at Real Madrid faces renewed scrutiny following Sunday’s 3-2 Spanish Super Cup final defeat to Barcelona in Jeddah. The Spaniard has endured relentless speculation about his future virtually since arriving in the summer to replace Carlo Ancelotti.
Despite an encouraging start that saw Real Madrid win 10 of their opening 11 La Liga fixtures, cracks began appearing in November when Los Blancos managed just two victories in eight matches. That barren spell ignited fierce debate about a potential managerial change, with reports even claiming the club had granted him a final test ahead of the Super Cup.
The 43-year-old has struggled with persistent injury crises and inconsistencies, leaving his side four points adrift of Barcelona in La Liga and seventh in the Champions League standings.
However, despite the Super Cup defeat, it seems that Los Blancos are willing to stick with the former Liverpool man for now. The ultra-reliable Mario Cortegana of the Athletic has provided an update on the situation, asserting that Alonso is not in danger of being dismissed as things stand:
“Alonso’s dismissal has not been seriously considered after his team lost last night with the season’s first trophy on the line.”
“Despite the 3-2 defeat on Sunday, there are two schools of thought within the club — from those who downplay what happened to those who are more self-critical.”
“The first group, which includes important voices from the board, argue it was a very even final that either team could have won. One factor they highlight is the number of injuries Xabi Alonso had to deal with going into the game.”
“The second group argues that recent improvements are not enough under Alonso, and that the way his first season in charge is heading is worrying.”
Meanwhile, it has also been reported that Xabi Alonso is on Manchester City’s shortlist should Pep Guardiola depart at the end of this current campaign.
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