Mbappé And Rodrygo Ease Pressure On Xabi Alonso With Alavés Win

Dec 15, 2025 - Speculation surrounding Xabi Alonso’s future intensified ahead of Real Madrid’s La Liga fixture against Alavés, with reports suggesting that a defeat could result in his dismissal. Several European media outlets claimed that each match had effectively become a do-or-die situation for the Spanish coach.

Even a narrow setback was believed to be enough to force Alonso out of the club. Under immense pressure, Real Madrid responded with a crucial 2-1 victory at Alavés’ home ground on Saturday night. Goals from Kylian Mbappé and Rodrygo secured the win, temporarily easing the uncertainty surrounding Alonso’s position.

The match was also significant as, for the first time under Alonso, Real Madrid’s four star players — Mbappé, Rodrygo, Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham — were named together in the starting eleven. Mbappé’s availability had been in doubt owing to injury, but the French forward recovered in time to feature and played an important role in the vital victory.

Mbappé and Rodrygo Seal Crucial Win

Real Madrid have struggled to show complete dominance despite fielding four star players together. However, they did not have to wait long to take the lead. Mbappé opened the scoring in the 24th minute, registering his 17th goal of the current La Liga season. Across all competitions, he has now scored 26 goals in 22 matches and also provided four assists. Overall, Mbappé has been directly involved in 64 percent of Real Madrid’s 47 goals this season.

Alavés equalised in the 68th minute through Carlos Vicente, putting pressure back on the visitors. However, Rodrygo restored Real Madrid’s lead in the 76th minute, scoring for the second match in a row to secure the win. The Brazilian winger had ended a run of 32 matches without a goal last week against Manchester City.

League Position and Alonso’s Reaction

This victory was Real Madrid’s third win in their last nine matches. Despite the result, they remain four points behind league leaders Barcelona. Real Madrid have 39 points from 17 matches, while Barcelona have 43 points from the same number of games.

Speaking after the match, Alonso praised his team’s effort but remained cautious. “The match was very competitive. We fought well. After taking the lead, we lost some control. Alavés play very fast football, so it is difficult to dominate for the full match. We came here to win, and in the end, we took the three points,” he said.

Alonso also stressed that one result does not change the overall situation. “We are all united, but one match cannot change everything. Before the break, we have a cup match on Wednesday and then another league match at home,” he added.

Real Madrid will face Rayo Vallecano in the Copa del Rey Round of 32 on Wednesday. Three days later, they will host Sevilla at the Santiago Bernabéu in La Liga.

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