Xabi Alonso Embraces Pressure After Real Madrid’s Dramatic Win

Xabi Alonso Embraces Challenge as Real Madrid Ends Winless Streak

Xabi Alonso Faces Pressure Head-On After Real Madrid Triumph

Xabi Alonso is no stranger to the intensity of Real Madrid, and after his side’s thrilling 4-3 Champions League victory over Olympiacos, the manager was quick to acknowledge that his journey in Madrid’s dugout is far from “a bed of roses.” The win, which snapped a three-match winless run, was both a relief and a reminder of the relentless demands at one of world football’s grandest stages.

Real Madrid Overcome Olympiacos in High-Scoring Encounter

The Champions League clash at the Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium saw Real Madrid survive an early scare. Olympiacos struck first in the eighth minute through Chiquinho’s well-taken volley, putting Alonso’s men on the back foot. However, galvanised by the pressure, Real Madrid roared back as Kylian Mbappe delivered a sensational first-half hat-trick, turning the tie on its head before the half-hour mark.

Injuries and tactical changes kept the match finely balanced. Olympiacos responded with goals of their own—Mehdi Taremi pulled one back just after halftime, but Madrid’s star forward was not to be denied. Mbappe’s fourth goal restored a two-goal cushion, though Ayoub El Kaabi’s late header ensured a nervy finish for the visitors. Despite Olympiacos threatening an equaliser, Alonso’s side held firm to secure all three points and break their recent slump.

Alonso on Handling Real Madrid Pressure

Addressing the media after the match, Alonso reflected on the magnitude of the occasion and the persistent pressure surrounding his role. “I was handling it much more calmly than you might expect,” Alonso stated. “I’m no novice at this. At Real Madrid, you quickly learn it’s not always a bed of roses—you have to remain critical, be demanding of yourself, and always look ahead. The unity and commitment from the players have helped us grow and navigate difficult moments.”

Positive Signs in Real Madrid’s Dressing Room

Alonso shared that the mood within the Real Madrid dressing room remains upbeat, despite recent setbacks. “They’ve been very positive, very productive. The unity the players have, their commitment—this is the only way. Besides the three points, I’m left with positive things that have happened behind the scenes,” Alonso explained. The manager’s level-headed approach provides stability during turbulent times, a crucial trait given the high expectations at the club.

Vinicius Jr. Shines Despite Off-Pitch Rumours

The win also brought renewed focus on Vinicius Jr., whose relationship with Alonso has been the subject of media speculation in recent weeks. Despite rumours of a possible rift and contract concerns, the Brazilian forward played a pivotal role in Madrid’s victory, assisting Mbappe twice and having a goal controversially ruled out.

Alonso praised Vinicius’ contribution: “I’m really sorry about the disallowed goal, but his combination and connection with Kylian, the two assists, the impact he’s had—these are the positives we take away tonight.” With 27 assists in Champions League play, Vinicius now stands alongside Karim Benzema as Madrid’s second-highest assist provider in Europe, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo.

Injuries Add to Alonso’s Challenge

Real Madrid’s trip to Greece was not without complications. Eduardo Camavinga was forced off at halftime, while Raul Asencio suffered a hamstring issue. Alonso acknowledged these challenges, saying the game was decided by pivotal moments and the squad’s resilience. “Today was a game of moments. We pulled it off, and with positive things: Kylian’s goals, Vini’s performance, and other players who also did well.”

What’s Next for Real Madrid and Xabi Alonso?

The victory keeps Real Madrid firmly in contention for a top-eight Champions League spot and maintains their position atop La Liga, despite recent draws away at Rayo Vallecano and Elche. Alonso’s focus is now on navigating a demanding run of away fixtures before returning to the Santiago Bernabeu.

“We’ll see. Time will tell. We had a good feeling… and we shared some things. Now we have a visit to Girona, then we go to Bilbao. The schedule is tough, but we’re going to face it,” Alonso said.

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Opinion: Alonso’s Composure Could Be Key

In the high-pressure environment of Real Madrid, Xabi Alonso’s calm, analytical approach serves as a stabilising force. Navigating injury setbacks, media speculation, and the immense weight of expectation, Alonso’s blend of composure and tactical acumen could prove essential for Madrid’s ambitions on multiple fronts. If unity in the dressing room persists and stars like Vinicius and Mbappe keep stepping up, this dramatic win could mark the start of a genuine turnaround.