Real Madrid Manager Xabi Alonso Dismisses Collapse Claims

Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has firmly denied suggestions that his side are experiencing a crisis, insisting that the team’s unity and connection are “improving” despite a frustrating 2-2 draw with Elche. The result extends Madrid’s run without a win, but Alonso remains confident in the direction his squad is heading.

Real Madrid’s Battle Against Elche: Drama and Resilience

Real Madrid’s La Liga journey hit another bump as they were held to a thrilling 2-2 draw by Elche at the Santiago Bernabéu. Despite dominating possession and creating a host of chances, the home team twice had to fight back from behind. Aleix Febas put Elche ahead in the 53rd minute, exploiting a rare lapse in the Madrid defence. The home side responded with relentless pressure, and Dean Huijsen eventually leveled the score in the 78th minute.

However, Elche quickly reclaimed their lead through Alvaro Rodriguez six minutes later, shocking the home support and threatening to hand Real Madrid only their second league defeat this season. It took a determined effort from Jude Bellingham, who struck in the 87th minute to salvage a vital point and keep Madrid at the league’s summit.

Xabi Alonso: “We Haven’t Fallen Apart”

After the match, Xabi Alonso addressed mounting questions about Real Madrid’s recent form and the perception of a squad “falling apart.” The manager was unequivocal in his response, stating, “We haven’t fallen apart. We’re still competing, and every match brings its own context. The results haven’t been what we wanted, but our spirit is strong and the connection among the players and staff is improving each day.”

Alonso acknowledged the dissatisfaction within the camp, adding, “We can’t be happy with these results. At Real Madrid, expectations are always high, and we’re self-critical. The only way forward is to respond to adversity and focus on continuous improvement.”

Team Spirit and Connection in Focus

With two consecutive draws in the league, scrutiny has intensified regarding the relationship between the coaching staff and players. Alonso, however, highlighted progress, explaining, “The connection is improving. We are spending more time together, communicating openly, and understanding each other better. Whether we win or draw, we experience it together, always united in our goals.”

He added that the recent setbacks have only strengthened their resolve: “We celebrate victories, and when things don’t go our way, we analyze, learn, and move forward. This is the Real Madrid mentality.”

Vinicius Jr’s Role and Squad Management

One major talking point was Vinicius Jr’s recent reduced playing time and his role from the bench against Elche. Alonso clarified, “We’ve had open discussions. Vinicius understands the tactical decisions and his current role. He’s a key player and has shown professionalism throughout. The whole squad is eager to get back to winning ways.”

La Liga Standings: Real Madrid’s Lead Narrows

Despite dropping points, Real Madrid remain top of the La Liga table with 32 points from 13 matches. However, their advantage over second-placed Barcelona has been reduced to just one point, intensifying the title race.

Champions League Challenge Up Next

The focus now shifts to the Champions League, where Real Madrid will travel to Athens for a crucial clash against Olympiacos. Alonso emphasized the importance of moving on quickly: “We need to analyze what happened today and shift our attention to the Champions League. Every competition matters, and we must get back on track.”

Madrid’s schedule remains relentless as they return to La Liga next Monday to face Girona at home, a match that presents an opportunity to regain momentum and silence critics.

Opinion: Madrid’s Resolve Faces a Crucial Test

Watching Real Madrid’s recent matches, it’s clear that while the results have been frustrating, the team’s resilience is still evident under Xabi Alonso. The willingness to fight back from behind points to a strong mentality, but the margin for error is slim with Barcelona closing in. Alonso’s insistence on unity and improvement may well be tested in the coming weeks, especially in Europe. The next few fixtures could define not only their season but the success of Alonso’s tenure.

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