Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has decided to put an end to the noise surrounding the dressing room, firmly defending his players amid speculation about an alleged internal fracture. Just hours before their European clash against Olympiacos in Athens, the coach demanded “respect” for his squad and categorically denied any attempt at sabotage toward his leadership.

The team arrives under pressure: a Champions League loss to Liverpool, plus consecutive draws against Rayo Vallecano and Elche, have triggered all sorts of alarms. In the middle of this, media attention has zeroed in on Vinicius Junior, criticized for his frustration during El Clásico and for failing to mention the coach in his subsequent public apology.

Alonso Puts Out the Fire: “I’m Not Discussing Any Lack of Respect”

When directly asked whether any player is trying to push him out, Xabi Alonso was blunt. “You have to show a lot of respect for the players,” he said, making it clear he will not fuel narratives that, in his view, only aim to destabilize the club. The coach explained that a locker room like Madrid’s always lives with noise and rough patches, and that the key is “not losing focus” or letting outside factors dictate the team’s mentality.

Alonso admitted recent mistakes but reminded everyone that any project requires time: inconsistency with and without the ball, lack of continuity and intensity, and the urgent need to “feel victory again.” Even so, he defended his squad and recalled that the players’ quality and attitude are the foundation of any team, something he experienced himself as a player under coaches like Ancelotti, Mourinho and Pellegrini.

His relationship with Vinicius, a topic that has generated headlines worldwide, was addressed naturally. Alonso insisted that managing strong personalities is an inseparable part of coaching Real Madrid, dismissing any idea of an internal mutiny. While international outlets claim Vini will not renew his contract if tension remains, the coach stressed he is focused solely on the team’s performance.

Growing Pressure, A Symbolic Birthday and a Historic Challenge

On his 44th birthday and six months into the job, Alonso acknowledged that the role is as demanding as he expected, but said he is “enjoying the full package.” The match against Olympiacos is not only crucial for securing qualification, but also represents a historic opportunity: Real Madrid have never won a Champions League match in Greece.

Alonso praised José Luis Mendilibar’s work with the Greek side and emphasized that the priority is to recover sensations and show an immediate reaction. With Barcelona closing the gap in LaLiga and the Champions League entering a decisive phase, the margin for error is shrinking fast.

The pressure isn’t going anywhere. The noise won’t disappear either. But Alonso, at least in his message, intends to keep the ship steady while the storm builds around Vinicius and the entire Madrid fanbase watches.