4 days ago
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Pressure is rapidly mounting at Real Madrid as the Spanish Super Cup approaches, and the spotlight is on Xabi Alonso.
This is because, according to Defensa Central, the club’s hierarchy has reached a critical point, with president Florentino Perez drawing a firm line regarding the manager’s future.
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As such, Perez has made it clear that the upcoming Spanish Super Cup could define Alonso’s tenure at the club.
If Real Madrid deliver a poor performance against Atletico Madrid in the semi-final, or in a potential final, Alonso’s position would become untenable.
In that context, Perez reportedly reminded the board of recent painful moments, stating,
“We can’t tolerate another humiliation like the one at the Metropolitano or against Celta Vigo.”
Alonso on thin ice
What makes the scenario even more brutal is that club sources believe the margin for error may be almost non-existent.
Even a narrow defeat, without the right attitude or competitiveness, could be enough to trigger Alonso’s dismissal.
Xabi Alonso’s future is in extreme scrutiny. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
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For a coach in charge of what is widely considered the most demanding job in football, results alone are no longer enough.
Alonso knows what is at risk. Having lived the club from the inside during his playing days, he understands better than most how Real Madrid operates.
When results falter, the manager becomes the natural focal point of blame.
This is the mindset with which Real Madrid are approaching the clash against Atletico Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup.
While it is officially a semi-final, defeat would feel catastrophic. It would not only end their Super Cup hopes but could also bring Alonso’s time at the club to an abrupt end.
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Despite the pressure, Alonso, his coaching staff, and the players are facing the challenge with optimism and intensity.
While Atletico Madrid are not currently at their best, history has shown that they always raise their level against Real Madrid.
That makes caution, focus, and execution absolutely vital for the players.
English (US) ·