Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham has thrown his support behind under-fire manager Xabi Alonso following the Champions League loss to Manchester City.
The Madrid hierarchy reportedly gave Alonso this one game to turn the tide, and he now faces the sack after a miserable run of only two wins in eight games.
However, Bellingham is behind the manager and reiterated that he has an excellent relationship with him.
Bellingham did not have his best game, but supplied the opener for Rodrygo Goes’ opener.
Unfortunately, Madrid struggled to create clear-cut chances, and City seized the opportunity to drag themselves back into the game.
Nico O’Reilly scored from close range following a corner before Erling Braut Haaland won and converted a penalty to turn the tie on its head.
Alonso needs time at Real Madrid
Sacking Alonso now would be nothing short of madness.
The recent results have been poor, and the pressure at Madrid is unlike anywhere else, but parting ways with Alonso just months into his tenure would only worsen the chaos.
Injuries to core players such as Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao and Antonio Rudiger have left the squad disjointed.
These setbacks forced Alonso into constant reshuffles. No manager in the world can build rhythm under those conditions.
Finding a suitable replacement in December would be an absolute nightmare for the club.
Elite managers are locked into their respective clubs, and anyone parachuted in mid-season would face the same problems Alonso is battling now.
Madrid appointed him for his long-term vision, and he deserves the time to implement it.
Patience is rarely a virtue at Madrid, but it is precisely what the club needs.
