Real Madrid Fight Setback at Bernabéu Leaves Xabi Alonso's Future Uncertain
Real Madrid suffered a 2-1 defeat to Manchester City at the Bernabéu, marking their second successive home loss and extending their winless run to eight games. Rodrygo scored Madrid's opener, his first goal in 33 games, before City equalised from a scramble off a corner. The winning goal came via a VAR-reviewed penalty converted by Erling Haaland after a foul by Rüdiger.
Thibaut Courtois made a decisive double save late in the match to prevent a larger deficit. The starting lineup was unusual, featuring Vinícius Jr as the central attacker, Rodrygo on the right, and Dani Ceballos in midfield, with Endrick introduced later. Several regular players were absent, including Carvajal, Militão, Alexander-Arnold, Mendy, Alaba, Camavinga, and Dean Huijsen. Mbappé was left out due to a last-minute ankle injury.
The defeat has left Xabi Alonso's future on a knife-edge, with a prior plan to sack him suspended but no resolution reached. Guardiola advised Alonso to build the team with conviction rather than accommodation. Madrid pressed for a remontada in the second half but could not complete it; Endrick hit the bar late, and Rodrygo celebrated his goal alongside Alonso.
