Under-fire coach insists team unity and focus will guide Los Blancos.

Xabi Alonso

Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso has insisted that the club’s current struggles can “change quickly”, ahead of a crucial Champions League clash against Manchester City on Wednesday.

Los Blancos have won only two of their last seven matches across all competitions, most recently suffering a 2-0 defeat to Celta Vigo in La Liga. Spanish media reports have linked Alonso’s job security to the result against Pep Guardiola’s side.

“This is a team, a club, we are united, and when you’re Real Madrid coach, you have to be ready to face these situations calmly, with unity and responsibility,” Alonso told reporters.
“I am really looking forward to what’s to come… For good or bad, things can change quickly in football, your perspective can change, and we’re in that moment.”

Madrid had impressed under Alonso in their 3-0 win over Athletic Bilbao at San Mames last week but faltered at home against Celta. The coach remains confident his team can handle Erling Haaland and Manchester City at the Bernabeu, strengthening their position in the Champions League group stage, where they currently sit fifth.

“We are mentally ready for what is coming, the team is united, we are all convinced we can win tomorrow,” Alonso added.
“We have to play at a good speed and intensity, we have to compete, of that there is no doubt.”

Alonso confirmed he enjoys the support of his players, echoed by midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni, who defended the coach:

“In the Vigo game, the coach had a good plan, but it’s the players who are playing on the pitch… If we play at our level, we have more chance to win games like this… it’s not the fault of the coach, we have to improve, and we will.”

Madrid now look to regain momentum and confidence against City in a fixture that could define Alonso’s early tenure.