Madrid, Spain:After losing to Barcelona in the Supercopa de Espana final, Real Madrid is once again at a crossroads. This has sparked internal discussions about the club's goals, standards, and expectations. Barcelona's recent dominance in both major matches and finals was reinforced by the 3-2 loss, which was another heartbreaking chapter in an expanding list of Clasico disappointments.
The response has not been consistent within Valdebebas. A portion of the club feels that the outcome should not be considered in a vacuum. According to this viewpoint, the final was hotly contested and depended more on small details than on systemic flaws. First-choice right-backs Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold, starting center-backs Eder Militao and Antonio Rudiger, and Kylian Mbappe's limited availability—he only entered the game late due to a knee issue—are just a few of the notable absences Xabi Alonso had to deal with.
According to a report in The Athletic, some members of the club have a more negative opinion. They contend that although there have been indications of improvement, the general course of Alonso's first season in charge is not compelling enough. This group is more concerned than reassured by their repeated losses to Barcelona and their incapacity to establish a distinct identity in pivotal games.
Alonso's job was secured by avoiding a significant loss.Alonso's job is safe for the time being despite the setback. The board has maintained the position reported in December that he should be given time, provided results do not collapse, and his dismissal has not been actively discussed. Some close to the team have been irritated by the belief that avoiding a crushing loss against Barcelona was sufficient to support continuity.
The team's inconsistent performances are also a topic of discussion behind the scenes. Some contend that replacing the head coach in the middle of the season won't solve more serious problems. Even though results have not always followed, Alonso's staff maintains that player commitment has increased and that a number of tactical ideas are starting to take shape.
The club's overall reaction has been quantified. Board members believe the current team can compete in La Liga, the Champions League, and the Copa del Rey, so there are no immediate plans to bolster the team during the January transfer window. However, managing injuries has gained importance.