By Martin Graham
Pep Guardiola’s arrival at the Bernabeu brought loud hostility from home fans, yet by the final whistle it was Manchester City’s travelling support celebrating a crucial Champions League win that deepened the pressure on Xabi Alonso. The former Barcelona coach’s presence only sharpened the sting for Madrid supporters as their team slipped to a 2-1 defeat.
Despite reports hinting that Alonso’s future was tied to the outcome, all understand he is not expected to be removed immediately. He is, however, facing a decisive stretch, with a looming trip to Alaves that could prove fatal should Real suffer a third straight loss.
As the match ended, the stadium sound system blared at full volume, seemingly an attempt to mask any negative reaction. Many seats were already empty when the noise faded and the chorus of “We’ve got Guardiola” rang out from the away end — a chant certain to cut deep among the home faithful.
Alonso admitted he had gone directly to his press duties after the final whistle and had not spoken to club president Florentino Perez. The executive board had already spent long hours debating the situation following the weekend defeat to Celta Vigo, and further discussions appear unavoidable.
Players’ commitment and tactical friction
Real Madrid’s bright opening, capped by Rodrygo’s low finish, suggested a possible resurgence. Yet two late first-half concessions — a close-range strike from Nico O’Reilly and an Erling Haaland penalty — quickly silenced the initially vibrant home ultras.
During the second half, from minutes 65 to 71, parts of the crowd voiced their displeasure repeatedly, urging more intensity. Madrid responded with sustained pressure, but the late push did little to ease concerns about Alonso’s standing.
Supporters seem divided, with many convinced that the squad has not properly implemented the manager’s instructions. The sense is that the players must adapt more closely to his demands and raise their contribution on the pitch.
Alonso’s tenure began with remarkable momentum, winning 13 of his first 14 fixtures after arriving prior to the Club World Cup. The dip began after a loss at Liverpool on 4 November, and since then Real have claimed only two victories from eight outings. Reports indicate cultural friction, with squad members hesitant to fully embrace his rigorous approach and unsure about the high-pressing structure they prefer.
Alonso insisted the team delivered high-level effort, stressing that he had no complaints regarding their commitment. Jude Bellingham echoed this, telling TNT Sport that the squad stood “100%” behind their coach, describing their internal discussions, and rejecting any suggestion of surrender within the group.
Uncertain future and limited alternatives
The defeat leaves Alonso in a fragile position as he navigates each match under scrutiny. Real sit second in the domestic standings, four points behind Barcelona, and in the Champions League phase they occupy a top-eight place merely on goal difference. Since their triumph in the competition two years ago, the club has endured five group-stage losses.
Marca journalist Juan Castro voiced deep pessimism about Alonso’s prospects, noting that consecutive defeats at home have created an environment that traditionally leaves little room for survival. He emphasized the Bernabeu’s unmistakable focus on the coach and argued that Perez does not tolerate repeated setbacks.
Castro added that, while removing Alonso might seem straightforward, identifying a suitable successor in December is far more complicated. Even so, he suggested the situation now appears bleak for the current manager as pressure intensifies.
