Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso defended his players’ commitment following a 2–1 home loss to Manchester City in the Champions League on Wednesday. Despite ongoing poor results — only two wins in eight competitive matches — Alonso insisted his squad is doing all they can amid a difficult run.
Alonso pointed to a string of key injuries that forced him to field makeshift defensive options, yet highlighted that the players “gave it their all” and showed a resilient attitude even as they conceded from mistakes in quick succession. He said he appreciated his players’ daily effort and urged them to keep working hard.
Accepting the fans’ reaction
Madrid supporters whistled the team off at full-time, a response Alonso said was understandable in the face of a home defeat. He described such reactions as part of coaching at a club with high expectations and emphasized the importance of self-criticism and continued effort.
Unity within the squad
Reports also highlighted that players publicly backed Alonso after the match. Several squad members voiced support for the manager amid speculation about his future, showing unity in a challenging period for the club.
What comes next
Real Madrid now turn their focus back to LaLiga, where they will seek a morale-boosting result against Alaves. Alonso remains keen to build on positive aspects of the performance and to navigate the team through its current slump with a unified group behind him.
Summary: In the wake of the 2–1 loss to Manchester City, Alonso praised his players’ attitude and resilience, acknowledged the understandable reaction from fans, and stressed unity and persistence as Real Madrid look to recover both in Europe and the league.
