xabi alonso Urges Patience After Real Madrid Stumble at Girona
GIRONA, Spain – Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso called for calm and emphasized the length of the season following his team’s 1-1 draw with Girona on Sunday, a result that leaves Los Blancos trailing rivals Barcelona in the La Liga standings. The draw marks Madrid’s third in their last four league matches, raising questions about their early-season form.
While acknowledging his team’s improved second-half performance and chances to secure a win,Alonso stressed the need for continued effort and unity. “We weren’t clinical, to get the three points. But its a very long season, and we have to keep going,” he stated in a post-match press conference. The result places Real Madrid one point behind Barcelona, who are set to face Atlético Madrid on Tuesday.
Madrid had enjoyed a strong start to the campaign, winning 10 of their first 11 league games. However, recent draws against Rayo Vallecano, elche, and now Girona, alongside a Champions league defeat at Liverpool, have prompted scrutiny of Alonso’s project. The manager attributed the shift in away form to natural fluctuations within a season, noting, “At the start [of the season] we were more consistent away from home.”
Alonso praised his team’s reaction to falling behind, highlighting the clear opportunities created to take the lead. “I liked the reaction [to going behind],” he said. “It wasn’t enough, but we were close.” He affirmed he held “no criticism” for his players and emphasized the importance of “remaining united, with the necessary self-criticism.”
The manager also expressed surprise that a potential penalty involving substitute Rodrygo wasn’t reviewed by VAR. “I haven’t seen it, but I’ve been told VAR could have looked at it,” Alonso commented. “They’re decisive moments, which can decide a game.”
Real Madrid will next travel to face Athletic Club on Wednesday, seeking to regain momentum in the league.
