Real Madrid's stumble against Celta (0-2) at the Santiago Bernabéu has triggered a critical situation for Xabi Alonso. The team's poor play and loss of solidity in recent weeks have heightened concern within the white club, to the point of placing the Basque coach in his most delicate moment since his arrival.
According to the newspaper Marca, which is well-connected with Real Madrid's leadership, the board has reportedly sent a clear message: **the team must react this Wednesday against Manchester City or an immediate change on the bench could occur**. Sources close to the club suggest that, following the defeat against the Galician team, an emergency meeting was held to analyze both the results trend and the feeling of disconnection between the coach and part of the locker room.
Ultimatum to Xabi Alonso After Defeat Against Celta
The sporting crisis is evident, but what has precipitated the gravity of the moment is the supposed lack of harmony between Xabi Alonso and several of the main figures in the locker room. According to the cited information, **some stars are not fully connecting with the coach's discourse**, a problem that would have grown as the team strung together negative results.
In this scenario, the defeat against Celta is interpreted as a turning point. Madrid has lost confidence, offensive productivity, and defensive solidity, and the board fears the dynamic will continue if a drastic decision is not made. **The match against Manchester City**, a rival that usually exposes all the shortcomings of teams going through turbulence, thus presents itself as a definitive test for the coach from Tolosa
The betting pools for the Real Madrid bench have already begun
The noise surrounding the white bench has led to the circulation of names of possible replacements in case of a breakdown. The first is Zinedine Zidane, whose mere mention already generates media consensus in Madrid due to his connection with the squad and his ability to manage high-pressure situations. It would be his third spell on the bench, a possibility that many see as the most continuity-driven option.
Another strong name is that of Jürgen Klopp. The German coach, currently linked to the global Red Bull project, is one of the most respected managers in the European scene. His style, his experience, and his ability to rebuild teams in crisis make him a strategically significant alternative, although his hiring would require complex negotiations.
The third option mentioned in the Madrid press is Álvaro Arbeloa, the current coach of the reserve team. His figure represents an internal bet: he knows the club's structure, maintains a good relationship with several first-team players, and is seen as a coach for the future within the organization. In case of emergency, his temporary promotion would not be ruled out either.