Players Rally Around Xabi Alonso: “We’re With You”
Real Madrid took an important step in their pursuit of Barcelona in La Liga with a gritty 1–2 victory over Alavés at Mendizorroza, cutting the gap to four points (43 for Barça, 39 for Madrid). It was far from an easy night for Los Blancos, who arrived with a depleted defence. Still, they secured three crucial points that have breathed new life into Xabi Alonso’s project—and once again confirmed the coach’s strong backing inside the dressing room.
According to sources close to the club, Alonso received a clear show of support from his players after the final whistle. Following a controversial performance by referee García Verdura—who denied Real Madrid a clear late penalty after a foul on Vinícius Jr.—the players applauded Xabi Alonso as soon as he entered the dressing room after his press conference.
“We’re with you, boss. This win is yours,” several players reportedly told him, underlining the unity within the squad.
Rodrygo Gives Oxygen to the Project
The decisive moment came in the 75th minute, when Rodrygo Goes scored the winning goal, giving fresh momentum to Alonso’s tenure. The Brazilian, who had already found the net against Manchester City midweek, started for the second consecutive match and is beginning to rediscover his sharpness ahead of 2026.
Meanwhile, Franco Mastantuono returned to action after recovering from a lumbar injury that had sidelined him for over a month. His last appearance had come on November 1 against Valencia, although he had been included in recent squads against Girona, Athletic Club, Celta, and Manchester City.
“A Very Valuable Win,” Says Xabi Alonso
Speaking after the match, Xabi Alonso highlighted the importance of the result at a notoriously difficult venue.
“This is a very competitive ground,” he said. “We’re fully focused on our own work. We’re together, preparing for a game every three days. This win deserves a lot of credit because we came here with many absences and suspended players.”
The coach also had words of praise for Víctor Valdepeñas, who made his first-team debut at left-back.
Focus Already on What’s Next
“We’re in this together. One match isn’t enough,” Alonso stressed. “Before the international break, we have the Copa on Wednesday and then our final home league game against Sevilla. There’s still a long way to go. This was an important moment, but we need to build on the good things we did today.”
Xabi Alonso is already turning his attention to the upcoming Copa del Rey clash against Talavera, scheduled for Wednesday at 9:00 pm at El Prado Stadium.
