The Real Madrid crisis shows no signs of slowing down, and all fingers are now pointing toward the dugout. The team’s recent 0–2 defeat to Celta Vigo at the Santiago Bernabéu intensified speculation about a supposed ultimatum for Xabi Alonso, who is reportedly coaching for his job this Wednesday when his side hosts Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League. With only one win in their last five domestic matches and sitting fifth in their Champions League group with 12 points, tension surrounds every step the team takes.

Yet despite the noise, the Spanish manager did not shy away. Ahead of the decisive European clash against Pep Guardiola’s side, Xabi Alonso delivered a message of calm and unity, insisting he does not fear for his position.

“I need to be ready to face these situations”

In a tense press conference, Xabi Alonso addressed the rumors head-on. He made it clear that he feels supported and focused on what lies ahead.

“When you are the coach of Real Madrid, you must be ready to face these situations with calm, unity and tranquility. That’s how I feel — with great desire for what’s coming,” he said.

He also emphasized that football can change overnight:
“We know frustration can quickly turn into excitement. In our minds, we are focused only on City and the Champions League. Perspectives in football can shift fast, for better or worse.”

Unity, support and no cracks inside the locker room

Despite reports in Spain of a divided dressing room and players unhappy with the team’s direction, Xabi Alonso insisted the group remains united.
When asked whether he feels supported by his players, he answered with a firm “yes.”

He also reaffirmed that communication with Florentino Pérez and the board remains positive:
“Communication is constant, based on trust and unity. We are all in this together,” he stated.

The manager called for collective resilience, stressing that difficult moments must be endured without fractures.

A defining test: Manchester City awaits

The showdown against Manchester City is far more than a group-stage fixture. It could define the future of the manager and the trajectory of a project that appears increasingly fragile. Still, Alonso chose to approach it with optimism.

“We have a beautiful, exciting match ahead. It’s a great opportunity to keep progressing in the Champions League. The atmosphere at the Bernabéu will be a true Champions League night,” he said.

He also acknowledged the ongoing adaptation process of managing the world’s biggest club:
“It’s not about changing — it’s about adapting. I know Real Madrid well; it’s the biggest club in the world. There’s a process of understanding its culture and its players.”

Madrid faces its toughest exam of the season

With only two wins in their last seven games, Real Madrid enters the match under immense pressure. Yet Xabi Alonso refuses to succumb to fear or speculation.

In a club where crises explode quickly and solutions are demanded instantly, the manager stands firm on calmness, unity and conviction. Now, everything hinges on what happens against City.

Will this be the breaking point, or the beginning of a long-awaited turnaround?