Xabi Alonso responds to Liverpool manager link amid Real Madrid sack speculation

Xabi Alonso has responded to doubts over his future amid a belief that the Real Madrid boss will be sacked if his side lose to Manchester City on Wednesday.

Madrid saw two players sent off and suffered a stunning home defeat against Celta Vigo on Sunday to make it just two wins in their last seven games to pile the pressure on Alonso.

With tensions rising in the dressing room, reports emerged on Monday that a poor result against City in the Champions League would seal Alonso’s fate.

However, Alonso refused to be drawn into the speculation and insisted his focus was solely on the match, saying: “When you coach Real Madrid, you have to be prepared for these situations.

“After the Celta game, we’ve already drawn our conclusions and the only thing on our minds is City. My focus is on the pitch. That’s what I can control, tomorrow’s game.

“I’m really looking forward to everything that’s coming, which starts tomorrow. In football, things can change quickly, and we’re in that moment now.”

Alonso makes ‘concessions’ to save Real Madrid job amid Liverpool links

Alonso’s comments come amid reports that the Spanish coach has been making ‘concessions’ with his management style, according to ABC, who claim that the Madrid boss has been giving more days off and fewer tactical obligations to ‘untouchable’ stars in the hopes of appeasing the dressing room.

However, the changes have not had the desired effect for Alonso and has paved the way for his ‘imminent’ dismissal.

Alonso insisted he still has the support of the squad and the board, saying: “Communication is constant. Based on trust, unity, and affection. We’re all in this together.”

Los Blancos are already thought to have considered alternatives, with Jurgen Klopp being reported as an option alongside ‘B’ team coach Alvaro Arbeloa and former manager Zinedine Zidane.

Alonso has also been linked with a return to Liverpool to replace under fire manager Arne Slot and he dismissed the speculation at his press conference, insisting he only wanted to be in Madrid.

“Right now, this is where I belong. It’s where I want to be.”

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