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Real Madrid Stands Firm: Club Backs Xabi Alonso Amidst Media Storm

he board isolates itself from outside noise—including a viral training ground “incident”—demanding an internal reaction rather than drastic changes.

Madrid, Nov 25, 2025 — In the corridors of Valdebebas, the message is clear: ignore the noise. Despite a swirl of media speculation, a viral training ground moment involving Vinicius Jr., and growing concern over recent performances, Real Madrid’s leadership has decided to stand by manager Xabi Alonso.

Sources indicate that the club is deliberately isolating itself from the relentless scrutiny following the team’s recent dip in form. While the board acknowledges the situation is delicate, their roadmap does not currently include an ultimatum for Alonso.

The “Poisoned Gift” and the Vinicius Rift The “noise” reached a fever pitch this week on the eve of Xabi Alonso’s 44th birthday. During a training rondo, Vinicius Jr. delivered what the Spanish press has dubbed a “poisoned gift”—ruthlessly nutmegging his manager in a moment that instantly went viral.

While some saw it as a lighthearted training moment, the media frenzy surrounding it highlights the genuine friction between the star winger and the coach. Reports suggest Vinicius has halted contract renewal talks, with rumors of an ultimatum circulating: he supposedly sees his future away from Madrid if the current tactical direction continues. This comes hot on the heels of his angry reaction to being substituted in El Clásico, where he later apologized to the club but pointedly omitted Alonso’s name.

VALENCIA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 23: Xabi Alonso, Head Coach of Real Madrid, and Vinicius Junior embrace after the team's victory in the LaLiga EA Sports match between Levante UD and Real Madrid CF at Ciutat de Valencia on September 23, 2025 in Valencia, Spain.
(Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

The Solution Must Come from Within Despite this “palpable disconnection” between the bench and key figures in the squad, the club’s directive remains firm: the institution comes first. The board views the solution as internal—personal grievances and viral moments must be set aside to rediscover the team’s competitive edge. They are backing Alonso’s authority, refusing to let player power dictate the managerial timeline.

No Ultimatum, But Results Matter Alonso is not facing a “match-ball” scenario in the upcoming clash against Olympiacos, but the clock is ticking. The board has demanded an immediate reaction. History at Real Madrid dictates that if results do not arrive, the spotlight eventually consumes the bench. However, for now, the club is preaching patience and unity, attempting to shield the squad from the storm brewing outside.

The focus now shifts to the pitch. Madrid expects the football—and the results—to do the talking, silencing the doubts and the viral clips once and for all.