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Real Madrid’s upcoming La Liga clash against Deportivo Alaves has taken on added significance as pressure continues to mount on manager Xabi Alonso. Following a difficult run of form that has yielded just two wins from the club’s last eight outings, the spotlight has intensified on the Basque coach, with reports suggesting his position is under close scrutiny.
While speculation has swirled around Alonso’s future, leadership within the dressing room has come to the fore. Club captain Dani Carvajal, despite being sidelined as he recovers from knee surgery, has emerged as a central figure in rallying the squad during a tense period at Valdebebas.
Carvajal steps up amid growing pressure
According to reports from Defensa Central, Carvajal called for a serious team meeting ahead of the trip to Vitoria, delivering a message aimed at restoring unity and accountability within the group. Though unable to contribute on the pitch, the veteran full-back’s influence off it has been pivotal as Real Madrid look to steady themselves.
Carvajal reportedly left no room for ambiguity while addressing his teammates, taking full responsibility away from the coaching staff and placing it squarely on the players.
“If we don’t win in Elche, Girona, Vallecas, against Celta or now in Vitoria, it is not Xabi’s fault; we are the responsible ones,” Carvajal said.
The statement underscored a clear show of support for Alonso at a time when doubts had begun to surface around the manager’s methods and direction.
Squad unity strengthens behind the manager
The report adds that the captain’s intervention appears to have had the desired effect. Any disconnect that existed between the players and the coaching staff earlier in the season has reportedly been addressed, with the squad now fully aligned behind Alonso’s vision. There is a renewed sense of ownership within the group, with players acknowledging their role in the recent downturn.
This internal reset comes at a crucial juncture. With Real Madrid trailing league leaders Barcelona and needing momentum before the year’s end, every result carries added weight.
A defining stretch ahead for Real Madrid
With Alonso’s job potentially on the line, the board is believed to be demanding a strong finish to the calendar year, reportedly targeting three consecutive victories. The challenge now lies with the players to translate words into performances, starting at the Mendizorroza against Alaves.
As pressure mounts externally, the message from within the dressing room is clear: the responsibility lies with the players to deliver and protect their manager when it matters most.
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