Real Madrid’s defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final was a painful result, but not one that has triggered panic. The final itself was closely contested, with both sides showing spells o...
Real Madrid’s defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final was a painful result, but not one that has triggered panic.
The final itself was closely contested, with both sides showing spells of quality, intensity and clear tactical intent.
Ultimately, the match swung in Barcelona’s favour due to a moment of misfortune, as Raphinha’s decisive effort took a deflection off Raul Asensio and looped past Thibaut Courtois, leaving Madrid with little chance to respond.
While the loss was difficult to digest, particularly given the nature of the deciding goal, it may have had an unexpected effect when it comes to Xabi Alonso’s situation at the club.
In recent weeks, the Real Madrid coach had been facing increasing external criticism, with doubts raised over results, injuries and defensive instability.
Florentino’s message to Alonso
Despite speculation about his future before the final, Florentino Pérez moved quickly to shut down any uncertainty.
According to Defensa Central, the Real Madrid president personally reassured several senior figures at the club that “He’s [Alonso] going to stay and he’s going to help us win titles.”
Xabi Alonso will not be sacked. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
This position contrasts sharply with the narrative that had begun to circulate in some quarters, suggesting that Alonso could be dismissed if the final ended in a heavy defeat.
As has been repeatedly reported, there has never been serious doubt at the Santiago Bernabeu about Alonso’s long-term suitability or the direction of his project.
Since taking charge, Alonso has had to go through a series of challenging circumstances.
Injuries have disrupted continuity, particularly in defence, while the team has struggled at times to find balance amid a demanding schedule.
From the club’s perspective, though, context matters. The performance in the final, despite ending in defeat, showed competitiveness and resilience rather than collapse.
That distinction appears to have weighed heavily in the internal assessment.
Category: General Sports
