Xabi Alonso Praises Madrid Amid Defeat

Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso admitted that his team was committed despite a 2-1 home loss in the Champions League at Santiago Bernabue on Wednesday to Manchester City.

Alonso who assumed power in June is under an increasing pressure after only winning two games in eight matches in all competitions. Injuries compelled him to play a make shift defense, with some of the most important players missing, namely, Eder Militao, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dani Carvajal, Dean Huijsen and Kylian Mbappe, the star striker.

Alonso was positive about the squad despite the setbacks, however, the strength and the dedication of the squad. We are talking of injuries but our players are doing our best and we have nothing to grumble today. I do enjoy the attitude of the players on a day-to-day basis and we must continue doing so, he said.

Madrid began well, and Rodrygo scored the first goal in the 28 th minute. Nonetheless, it did not last long because goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois failed in taking control of a corner which, in turn, enabled Nico O’Reilly to create a tie in 10 minutes. Antonio Rüdiger was shortly after penalised after he fouled Erling Haaland giving City the killer blow.

Alonso acknowledged that it is disappointing that they lost in their own home but he appreciates the support of the fans who never gave up on them. When you lose at home, you can whistle but there have been occasions where fans have been behind us, he said.

This defeat puts the hopes of Real Madrid in the Champions League in jeopardy, as City rose to the fourth position on 13 points and Madison fell to the seventh position on 12 points and this is the second loss in a row.

Real Madrid now shifts focus to LaLiga where they will hit Alavés on Sunday. The team will be concerned with regaining shape and stabilizing their team during the injuries crisis. Analysts observe that the tactical changes and management of his squad by Alonso will be important in case Madrid wishes to qualify to the top-four and proceed to Europe.