The Athletic FC Podcast Is Alonso still facing Real Madrid sack?
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Dec 11, 2025 Dermot Corrigan, a seasoned football writer for The Athletic, joins fellow contributors Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero and Seb Stafford-Bloor to delve into Xabi Alonso's precarious position at Real Madrid. They explore player dynamics, including Jude Bellingham's crucial backing of Alonso, and how recent poor performances and a tough schedule have added pressure. The trio discusses the challenges of managing egos in Madrid compared to Alonso's success at Leverkusen and whether a managerial change would truly solve the team's underlying issues.
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Short Leash Despite Survival
- Xabi Alonso is safe for now but his position is dicey after poor recent form and fan anger.
- The board will give him at least three games to show improvement before reassessing.
Bellingham As Key Ally
- Jude Bellingham is a major voice in the dressing room and publicly backed Alonso after the City game.
- Madrid lacks the veteran leadership that previously anchored the squad during transitions.
Autumn Crises Aren't Final
- Madrid often has autumn crises that can reverse later, so short-term form isn't definitive.
- Alonso needs results quickly but can still recover as previous managers have done.