Xabi Alonso Stays at Real Madrid Helm Despite Super Cup Final Heartbreak

Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has stepped back from immediate pressure to resign following a narrow 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the 2026 Spanish Super Cup final at King Abdullah Stadium in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Despite the loss extending Madrid's trophy drought beyond a year, club officials have decided to retain Alonso, citing his tactical adjustments, squad unity, and a spirited performance amid an ongoing injury crisis.[1][2][4][5]

Alonso expressed mixed emotions post-match, blending disappointment with pride: "The team competed and fought right to the end... We came very close, with those last two chances to equalise and go to penalties." He highlighted the even contest, marked by goals, reactions, and a late deflection that sealed Barcelona's win at 3-2. Vinícius Júnior shone brightly, scoring a spectacular solo goal and terrorizing defenses until fatigue forced his 85th-minute exit due to humidity.[1][2][3]

A planned substitution of Kylian Mbappé in the 76th minute aimed to inject threat between the lines, but it came just after Barcelona's decisive goal, limiting impact as the Frenchman returned from injury. Fitness woes plagued Madrid: Ferland Mendy hurt in the semi-final win over Atlético Madrid, and Dean Huijsen limped through with muscle issues.[1][2][3][5]

Speculation about Alonso's sacking—fueled by five losses in six recent Clásicos and a poor November-December run—has eased. Reports confirm no ultimatum; the final's encouraging signs, like player commitment and tactical flexibility, buy time. Madrid prioritizes fixing the injury crisis and physical conditioning over a managerial change, viewing the Super Cup as a foundation for improvement despite the sting of defeat to Hansi Flick's Barcelona.[3][4][5]

Alonso urged focus forward: "When we get to Madrid we'll forget about this Super Cup, think about all the competitions... and get people back."[1] The season presses on, with Alonso's job secure—for now.

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