No ultimatum – Real Madrid maintain full trust in Alonso ahead of Athletic Club clash

Three consecutive draws in La Liga and only one win in five matches across all competitions have led to immense pressure on Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso.

The 44-year-old tactician’s position is being questioned, while rumours of some unrest in the dressing room continue despite messages of unity being sent publicly.

Real Madrid not thinking about removing Alonso

Later tonight, Real Madrid wait another tough test against Athletic Club away at San Mames, which is pretty much a must-win fixture now that Barcelona have a four-point lead at the top of the league table.

However, according to MARCA, Alonso’s job is not under threat heading into the clash against the Basque club.

Indeed, Alonso is not fighting for his job at San Mames. Real Madrid continue to back the coach ahead of the visit to Athletic, where they hope to finally see the long-awaited reaction from the team.

Job not under threat. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)

At Valdebebas they have noticed signs of improvement in the last two matches (Olympiacos and Girona) and believe it is only a matter of time before the team returns to winning form in La Liga.

In that sense, the match in Bilbao is seen by the club as an opportunity rather than a make-or-break situation, especially for the coach, who is usually the weakest link in moments of instability.

Inside Real Madrid, there is no talk of deadlines for a reaction or anything similar.

They point out that the team remains fully alive in both La Liga and the Champions League and, although recent results have caused damage, they stress that this is a team under construction that has already shown good performances.

Injuries have not helped either, with some matches played with up to seven key players unavailable.

In short, Alonso has room to breathe in Bilbao. Real Madrid remain calm while hoping to see a strong reaction from the team so that the winless run in La Liga can come to an end.