Facing Manchester City in the Champions League on Wednesday, Real Madrid is determined to recover swiftly after an unexpected home defeat over the weekend and a growing injury list, according to coach Xabi Alonso.
Real’s flawless home record in the Spanish league ended with a shocking 2-0 loss to Celta Vigo on Sunday, putting them four points behind leaders Barcelona. They must quickly shift focus to their upcoming Champions League challenge.
“We need to move on swiftly,” Alonso commented, amidst Monday’s Spanish sports media speculating about his rapport with the players.
“La Liga has a long journey ahead. Our match against City is crucial to bounce back and shake off this disappointment.” With only one win in their last five La Liga games, Alonso faces scrutiny over his player relations, playing style, and tactical choices, while injuries continue to mount.
“Injuries are a challenge. Reacting was tough,” said Alonso, whose team finished Sunday’s game with two red cards.
“It’s painful, we’re upset, and we get why the fans are too.”
Defender Eder Militao left the pitch injured in the first half on Sunday, joining David Alaba, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dani Carvajal, Dean Huijsen, and Ferland Mendy on the injury list. Jude Bellingham sustained a cut above the eye but is expected to play against Manchester City.
“Injuries are tightening our options. We must adapt for every match, and we’ll see how things unfold on Wednesday,” added the coach, who succeeded Carlo Ancelotti at the season’s beginning.
Sports newspaper AS criticized Alonso’s motivational skills, while Marca doubted his ability to resolve issues.
Yet, the coach remains optimistic: “We’re united and confident in turning this around. There’s plenty of time left, and a bad home game happens. We understand the club’s high expectations. Defeats are tough, but we must look forward.”
