The headline, “‘No one downing tools’ – Alonso’s stay of execution despite loss to Man City,” refers to the precarious situation of Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso following a narrow but damaging 2-1 defeat to Manchester City in a crucial UEFA Champions League match at the Santiago Bernabéu.
The loss compounded a disastrous run of form for Real Madrid, which saw them win only two of their last eight matches across all competitions, including a humiliating 2-0 home defeat to Celta Vigo days earlier.
This sequence of poor results had put Alonso’s job on the line, with widespread reports in the Spanish media suggesting the City game was an unofficial ultimatum from the club hierarchy, and a loss could lead to his immediate dismissal.
However, the “stay of execution” stemmed directly from the team’s attitude and performance against the reigning champions, as well as the immediate and public support from his players.
The quote “no one downing tools” was attributed to players like star midfielder Jude Bellingham, who stressed that despite the bad run, the squad was “100% behind” Alonso and actively fighting for him.
Unlike the listless display against Celta Vigo, Real Madrid’s performance against Manchester City was marked by high intensity, better structure, and emotional commitment.
They took the lead through Rodrygo and, even after falling behind to goals from Erling Haaland and Nico O’Reilly, they continued to push, creating chances until the final whistle.
This show of spirit and fight, in the face of immense pressure and a mounting injury crisis (with key players like Kylian Mbappé sidelined), convinced senior officials to pause any immediate plan to sack Alonso.
Rodrygo’s act of running directly to hug the coach after scoring his goal further solidified the public message that the dressing room had not fractured, which had been a key criticism against the manager.
While the loss meant the pressure on Alonso remains intense, and his long-term future is still on a “knife-edge,” the demonstrated unity and effort from the squad bought him time to lead the team into the upcoming matches and attempt to turn their season around.
About the Author
