Alonso Faces Crucial Real Madrid Turning-Point Test in Clash Against Alaves

Under Pressure, Alonso Faces Critical Turning-Point Test as Real Madrid Visit Alavés

Real Madrid ran — and for now, running was enough. Not enough to win, nor to earn a point, but enough to keep the pressure from completely closing in on Xabi Alonso, whose job remains under intense scrutiny.

Despite a 2-1 Champions League defeat to Manchester City at a frustrated Santiago Bernabéu, Alonso remains in charge. But the foundations for a potential dismissal are already in place, and every match — starting with Sunday’s crucial La Liga clash away to Alavés — feels like a test of his future.

Spanish media widely reported that Alonso could be sacked if Real Madrid lost to City, yet the improved performance appears to have bought him time. The club hopes this match can serve as the turning point for a team with just two wins in their last eight games across all competitions.

Real Madrid trail La Liga leaders Barcelona by four points, a gap that could grow to seven if Barça defeat Osasuna on Saturday. Still, the squad publicly rallied behind Alonso, with goalscorer Rodrygo Goes embracing his manager after scoring.

“We saw a change in attitude today,” said defender Raúl Asencio, highlighting signs of a shift that may have influenced president Florentino Pérez’s decision not to act.

Yet the danger persists. Another stumble could make it easy for the club to move on — particularly with no obvious replacement.

Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois also voiced full support for his coach:

“By winning on Sunday, we will change this dynamic.”

Injuries and Suspensions Challenge Alonso Ahead of Alavés Test

Real Madrid will be short-handed for the trip to Vitoria. Last weekend’s 2-0 loss to Celta Vigo, which pushed Alonso to the brink, also saw Álvaro Carreras and Fran García sent off, and both are suspended.

Injuries add further pressure, with Trent Alexander-Arnold, Éder Militão, and potential doubts over Dean Huijsen and Eduardo Camavinga. The biggest uncertainty is Kylian Mbappé, whose knee discomfort kept him on the bench against City. Alonso said playing him would have been a “risk.”

Rodrygo Rediscovers Form as Real Seek a Reset

One major positive was Rodrygo’s return to form. After 32 goalless matches, the Brazilian produced a superb finish against City and looked revitalized on the right wing.

“It’s one of the good pieces of news today to see him regain his quality and score,” Alonso said.

However, Vinícius Júnior delivered a less convincing display, and his anger at Alonso after being substituted in October’s Clasico remains a flashpoint in what Spanish media describe as a strained relationship between some players and the coach. Reports of tactical disagreements and complaints about selection decisions have circulated for weeks.

Still, the support shown after the City match suggests the rift may be closing — but Sunday’s match at Mendizorroza Stadium will reveal whether the renewed work ethic remains intact.

Alavés Await With Strong Home Defensive Record

Mid-table Alavés have built a solid home defensive record this season, meaning the weekend fixture could be decisive for Alonso’s future. A win could restore stability — but a slip could reopen the door to uncertainty at Real Madrid.