Image Credits: Imago Images
Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham has addressed reports of a strained relationship with former manager Xabi Alonso during his short tenure at the club.
Alonso has left Los Blancos after less than eight months in charge, following their Spanish Super Cup defeat to Barcelona, with speculation about unrest in the dressing room.
A club statement read: “Real Madrid C. F. wishes to announce that, by mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to bring his time as first team coach to an end.
“Xabi Alonso will always carry the affection and admiration of all Madridistas because he is a Real Madrid legend and has always represented the values of our club.
“Real Madrid will always be his home. We would like to thank Xabi Alonso and all his coaching staff for their hard work and dedication throughout this time, and wish them the best of luck in this new stage of their lives.”
Bellingham has dismissed claims that he was involved in any issues, emphasising that he fully supported Alonso, who won 24 of his 34 games after replacing Carlo Ancelotti last summer.
The former Liverpool midfielder reportedly clashed with Kylian Mbappe over tactics and had tensions with president Florentino Perez before being replaced by Alvaro Arbeloa.
Brazil forward Vinicius Jr also clashed with Alonso after being substituted during Real Madrid’s league win over Barcelona in October. Bellingham addressed the rumours directly on his app JB5, strongly rejecting suggestions that he did not back the former manager.
The England international posted: “Until now l’ve let far too many of these slide, always hoping the truth will come to light in its own time. But honestly… What a load of sh*t.”
“Truly feel sorry for the people that hang onto the every word of these clowns and their ‘sources’. Do not believe everything you read, every now and then, these lot need to be held accountable for spreading this kind of damaging misinformation for clicks and added controversy.”
Los Blancos currently sit four points behind Hansi Flick’s side in the La Liga title race and face a tough challenge if they are to avoid finishing the season without silverware for the second consecutive year.
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