Real Madrid manager, Xabi Alonso, says he will not blame his players for Wednesday night’s 2–1 defeat to Manchester City in their UEFA Champions League clash at the Santiago Bernabéu. Speaking during a post-match press briefing, the under-pressure coach dismissed suggestions that fan frustration or recent poor form had affected the squad’s performance. Alonso, who has faced heavy criticism following a run of disappointing results — including last weekend’s 2–0 loss to Celta Vigo — insisted that neither the players nor the supporters deserved reproach. “There have been moments of every kind of reaction; also some in which they applauded and pushed us on until the end,” he said. “We’re not happy with the run we’re on, obviously, but I have nothing to reproach anyone for. And never the fans, because they’ve seen a lot and know a lot about this. And the players today either.” The defeat has intensified speculation over Alonso’s future, with reports suggesting the club hierarchy is considering a managerial change. But the Spaniard said he had “no regrets” about the performance against City. “We have nothing to regret,” he added. “We tried until the end, we started well and took the lead… but there are moments when any blow hurts more, and that’s how it was. In 10 minutes, with a corner and a penalty, they took the lead.” Alonso said the team lacked composure in key moments but fought to get back into the match. “We conceded, we didn’t control those situations well and then the team tried. For better or worse, but we tried until the end. We had chances, we lacked the finesse to score… but I have nothing to complain to anyone about.” Amid ongoing rumours of an imminent sack, the Real Madrid boss maintained that he remains focused solely on guiding the team forward. “I’m focused on the next game,” he said. “The important thing here is Real Madrid. It’s the team, the players and how I can help them. It’s not about me.”
Alonso Refuses to Blame Players After Real Madrid’s Defeat to Manchester City
