As Real Madrid prepares to face Alaves in an important La Liga matchup, the team finds itself navigating a critical juncture in the season. After enduring a series of disappointing results and mounting pressure on manager Xabi Alonso, Los Blancos aim to reclaim their winning form while presenting a united front for their beleaguered coach. With key players like Kylian Mbappe returning to the lineup and a renewed sense of determination among the squad, the coming clash becomes more than just a game—it embodies the resilience of a storied club seeking to bounce back against adversity.
Real Madrid will face a crucial test on Sunday, December 14, as they visit Alaves at the Mendizorroza Stadium in Vitoria, Spain, for a match in Spain’s La Liga. With kickoff set for 9 PM local time (20:00 GMT), the stakes are high for the record La Liga champions, who are desperately seeking to ease the pressure on their manager, Xabi Alonso. Following a challenging period that has seen the team suffer a string of disappointing results, another defeat could jeopardize Alonso’s position at the helm.
In a demonstration of solidarity amidst the turbulence, Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham publicly expressed that the players fully support Alonso, emphasizing that no one had “downed tools” following their defeat against Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League. The return of star forward Kylian Mbappe, who missed the recent match due to injury, brings additional hope to the squad as they look to turn their fortunes around.
Alaves, who have been resilient at home, poses a significant challenge with an impressive record of only two losses in eight games at Mendizorroza this season. Despite their ups and downs, Alaves recently achieved a morale-boosting victory against Real Sociedad, giving them confidence as they aim for European qualification.
For Alonso, the match against Alaves represents not only a vital opportunity for three points, but also a potential turning point for a team that has struggled to find their rhythm this season. Despite facing criticism and doubts, Alonso remains optimistic, recognizing that overcoming adversity can ultimately strengthen the team. He noted that they must embrace their challenging circumstances to improve collectively.
The recent past has been tumultuous for Real Madrid, with notable defeats including a distressing 2-0 loss at home to Celta Vigo—where two players were sent off—and a narrow 2-1 loss to Manchester City. Alonso acknowledged the pressing nature of their situation, understanding the expectations that accompany managing a club of Madrid’s stature.
Interestingly, the support from players like goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and defender Raul Asencio highlights a united locker room that is willing to rally around their coach. The resolve displayed by Bellingham and Rodrygo, who showed determination during their last match against City, offers a glimmer of hope that Real Madrid can harness their talents to reclaim their winning ways against Alaves.
As the two sides prepare for their upcoming encounter, the historical context adds another layer of intrigue. In their last meeting, held back in April of this year, Real Madrid emerged victorious with a 1-0 win. However, given the current circumstances, both teams will bring their own aspirations to the pitch: Real Madrid seeks to restore their pride and momentum, while Alaves hopes to solidify their standing and push for European ambitions.
Head-to-head statistics favor Real Madrid, who have dominated the encounters historically, winning 23 of the 29 competitive matches against Alaves. As the pressure mounts, all eyes will be on both coaches as they strategize for a tense yet thrilling battle in La Liga, with fans eagerly awaiting the outcome as the day approaches.
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