Real Madrid Squad Stand Behind Alonso After UCL Defeat to Manchester City

Real Madrid players have expressed full support for manager Xabi Alonso following the club’s 2–1 defeat to Manchester City in their UEFA Champions League group-stage fixture on Wednesday.

The result continued a difficult run for the team in both domestic and European competitions.

Manchester City overturned Madrid’s early lead, with Rodrygo scoring in the first half before goals from City’s attacking line shifted the momentum. Despite the loss, Madrid recorded periods of possession and created several scoring opportunities but were unable to convert late chances.

Speaking after the match, midfielder Jude Bellingham stressed player commitment to the manager during his TNT Sports interview.

He said, “The manager’s been great. I personally have a great relationship with him, a lot of the lads do as well. After the first run of games where we drew a few, we had some great conversations internally. In the last couple of games, we’ve just let ourselves down again. But no one is downing tools, no one is complaining, moaning, thinking the season is over.”

Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois delivered similar support in his Movistar+ interview, stating that the squad remains focused and aligned with the manager’s approach. He said, “We don’t see it that way. We want to win because we know the situation we’re in. We’ve dropped too many points in La Liga, and although we’re doing well in the Champions League, we can’t afford to fall out of the top eight. But I think today we showed that we’re behind the manager.”

Addressing the media in his post-match press conference, Alonso praised the team’s resilience despite the result and the ongoing injury challenges within the squad.

He said, “The team kept going, we tried until the end, and with all the difficulties we have with injuries, the players gave everything. Today I have nothing to criticize. The results in November and December haven’t been good, or what we wanted. We’re self‑critical, but we have to keep working and believing it will pass.”

The public show of support from key players comes at a critical moment for Madrid, as the defeat leaves their Champions League progression dependent on upcoming fixtures.

With pressure mounting from fans and sections of the media, the backing from within the squad is seen as an important signal of internal stability as the team prepares for decisive matches ahead.