Xabi Alonso Addresses Player Tensions and Reaffirms Real Madrid's Cohesion

Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has addressed recent speculation regarding a supposed "conspiracy" among players aimed at undermining him, particularly amid rising tensions with key player Vinícius Júnior.

This response follows media reports suggesting a divide between the coaching staff and players, which has raised concerns for club president Florentino Pérez, especially given the team's inconsistent performances in recent outings.

The friction between Alonso and Vinícius has intensified since Alonso's appointment at the start of the season, culminating in a heated moment during the recent El Clásico when Vinícius expressed frustration after being substituted, stating, "Every time! I should leave the team; it’s better for me to go permanently!"

In light of these rumors, Alonso firmly rejected claims of any divisions within the squad, reiterating his respect for the locker room dynamics and acknowledging the external pressures players endure. He remarked, "Players and teams must be respected in their preparation. We address these issues, but they should not distract us from our chosen path."

On the subject of the team's recent performance, Alonso conceded that the last three matches have not met expectations but pointed out that the team had previously demonstrated strong capabilities. He noted, "Change requires time. We sometimes struggle with consistency, both in possession and defensively, making some games more challenging than necessary. However, we will maintain our commitment and collective quality moving forward."