Xabi Alonso is facing pressure from all directions.

Xabi Alonso was anticipated to start a new chapter for Real Madrid, yet circumstances appear to be opposing him.

Coach Xabi Alonso finds himself in a situation described as “very challenging.” Ahead of the away match at Athletic Bilbao’s San Mamés stadium, Real Madrid under Alonso has experienced a disappointing run with only one win in the last five games.

After losing to Liverpool in the Champions League, Real Madrid was held to draws by Rayo Vallecano and Elche before and after the international break. Although Los Blancos temporarily bounced back with a thrilling 4-3 victory over Olympiacos in the Champions League, they slipped again by drawing 1-1 with Girona over the weekend.

At Montilivi, Kylian Mbappé scored a penalty in the 67th minute to equalize after Azzedine Ounahi had put Girona ahead in the first half. However, Real Madrid failed to push forward for a full three points. The draw with Girona cost Real Madrid the chance to reclaim the top spot from Barcelona, who lead them by one point.

Before the win against Olympiacos, reports emerged that a group of Real Madrid players were dissatisfied with Alonso. According to The Athletic, some players in the dressing room remain “unconvinced” by his coaching methods, although others believe the 43-year-old coach is not to blame for the three consecutive draws.

Sources within the club reveal Alonso is under significant pressure due to recent poor performances. The Spanish coach’s inability to control the dressing room is also seen as a major drawback.

The upcoming matches for Xabi Alonso are described as crucial both for “results” and “image,” implying that pressure will increase if he cannot deliver clear improvement. Real Madrid must not only win but also demonstrate convincing play, which is currently very difficult.

Real Madrid also faces a disadvantage by playing three consecutive away games in La Ligabecause Santiago Bernabeu is being used for an NFL game during the November FIFA Days. Currently, Alonso’s team is preparing for their fourth consecutive away match against Athletic Bilbao.

Despite the difficulties, Alonso urgently needs a win during this away stretch to ease the pressure, as Real Madrid will then face a tough showdown with Manchester City in the Champions League. This match is expected to be extremely challenging for the former Bayer Leverkusen coach.

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