XABI ALONSO feels supported by his Real Madrid team even after the 2-1 Champions League loss to Manchester City on Wednesday. The Real Madrid coach said he believes his squad is behind him, despite the defeat.
Before the game, Spanish media reported that Alonso might be let go after losing to Pep Guardiola's team, and fans also showed their disapproval by whistling during the match.
However, Alonso said the team's performance was strong and he is thankful for his players, even though they have only won two out of their last eight games across all competitions.
"I feel the support of the players, we're at the training ground every day together, preparing for the games," Alonso shared with reporters.
He admitted that despite the second consecutive loss, he couldn't ask for more from his players.
"The players are giving their all, so I have nothing to criticize, I'm very grateful for their attitude, day by day, and we have to keep going," Alonso said.
He also added that while the results aren't what they want, they need to be self-critical but keep working and believing that things will improve.
Alonso's players showed support for him after the game, publicly showing their unity with the coach after some media reports suggested they were unhappy with him in recent weeks.
Rodrygo, who scored his first goal in 33 matches, ran over to hug Alonso after scoring the opening goal.
"It's a tough moment for us and for (Alonso) as well. Things aren't going well... we wanted to show people we're together with the coach," Rodrygo said in an interview with Movistar.
"We are together, we need this unity to keep moving forward and achieving our goals."
Defender Raul Asencio also said the team is 100% behind Alonso. Madrid were missing their top goalscorer Kylian Mbappe for the game due to knee discomfort that kept him out of training on Tuesday.
"It's too early to say if he'll be fit for Sunday's match against Alaves in La Liga, but today obviously he wasn't ready," Alonso said.
"If he was, he would have played. If he isn't there, we miss him."