Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has ignored speculation about his job security after the explosion of results, saying he is only focused on preparing the team for their first-night clash and improving their performance. Alonso also revealed that he had spoken to Florentino Perez since Tuesday, when he went on to reveal that they had discussed the team.
Alonso’s side snapped a winless streak last Wednesday against Olympiakos, but a draw with Girona on Sunday raises concerns about Real Madrid’s as well. It is reported that Perez will discuss the future of Alonso and the rest of the position after their clash with Athletic Club. Before the game, he was asked if he believed that people were questioning his progress.
“I am focused on tomorrow, when I prepare the team. There is still a long way to go, more than a third of the season left, everything is very close, and there is a lot of sand to cover.”
“We are where we are, both sides and everything else. We live with the pressure. We focus on what we can change.”
He was also asked if he had spoken to Perez since last week, when he confirmed that the President of Real Madrid was behind him.
“I spoke with the President again, and it was very good, with a good voice, we want to change the results, and that’s what we were talking about.”
Alonso is willing to stick to the high pressure structure
Part of the concern about Alonso comes from the very different image of Real Madrid from the start of the season, when they pressed high, controlled games and planned to win. He was asked if that idea was behind his side.
“[We’re playing] Football, we try to do our best. There were some good games, but there were some not-so-good games. That’s why we didn’t win those games. And that’s what we want to fix, to play more consistently, and the need to play better every game. “
Alonso was convinced that his side was clear about what they wanted to do, when it was put to him that their pressure was not at the same level.
“The players understand what we want to do and how we can improve. Without the organization, it’s impossible, and we have to work for it, and that’s why we started everything with confidence.”
“The road ahead is demanding for everyone. And the preservation of 100% energy is difficult. But we must focus on being more flexible, where a good feeling arises. When the team is going well,” said about the importance of the situation.
What changes come after the ‘big improvement’ in the roof?
After their win over Olmpiakos, Alonso explained that more than the win, he was happy with the progress made on the pitch in the leading hours. The Basque manager revealed the contents of a series of interviews with his players on what they need to change.
“We talked about football, about unity, about what they should improve more flexibility. That’s what worries us. We want to break our game losing streak, and tomorrow’s game has a good chance.”
“The job is wanted but I am not the first manager to have to face this situation. I think a lot about the way Carlo (Ancolotti) or Jose (Mourinho) manage.”
To deliver @Uefa 2025
Full story below pic.twitter.com/pkd0ubcflg
– Football españa (@Footballelle PhenClable_) November 26, 2025
There have been reports that Alenso has also reduced the length of his tactical instructions, and he was asked to make a number of special changes.
“Yes. He is always changing, renewing things, making repairs. This picture is not ruined; and what can we do better.”
Los Blancos travel to the Basque country on Wednesday to face Athletic Club in San Mames, as they end their run of six straight games away from home. They will be heavy favorites against Ernesto Valverde’s struggling side.
