Manchester City overturned an early setback to defeat Real Madrid 2-1 on Wednesday in the Champions League, intensifying the uncertainty around Xabi Alonso’s future as the Spanish side’s manager.
Madrid, missing injured star Kylian Mbappé, went in front through Rodrygo, but City responded with goals from Nico O’Reilly and an Erling Haaland penalty to seal a vital win. Spanish reports suggested Alonso’s job was already hanging by a thread, and although his players delivered moments of quality, the final result frustrated a restless Bernabéu crowd.
Real Madrid, who hold a historic 15 Champions League titles, have now won only two of their last eight matches across competitions and remain under pressure as they fight to finish inside the league-phase top eight.
Alonso kept Mbappé on the bench due to “a risk” linked to knee discomfort, opting to start 21-year-old Gonzalo García. Madrid eliminated City in last season’s play-off round, with Mbappé scoring four goals in that tie.
Both teams began with intensity. Vinicius Junior was at the centre of Madrid’s early chances, including a moment when VAR overturned what first appeared to be a penalty. Rodrygo eventually broke his long drought by finishing low across Gianluigi Donnarumma for his first goal in 33 games, and his fifth career strike against City.
However, Madrid’s control slipped when Thibaut Courtois spilled a header from Josko Gvardiol, allowing O’Reilly to tap in. Moments later, City took the lead after Antonio Rüdiger held Haaland in the box, and the Norwegian finished “ice-cold” from the spot.
Courtois later produced crucial saves to deny Haaland, Rayan Cherki, and Jeremy Doku. Jude Bellingham had a chance to equalise but lifted his effort over the bar. Alonso brought on Arda Güler and Endrick in search of answers, yet Madrid struggled to create clear openings, with Endrick heading narrowly over late on.
Madrid’s lack of ideas after the break may prompt the club to consider a managerial change sooner rather than later.
What You Should Know
Real Madrid’s defeat to Manchester City adds to a worrying run of poor form that has placed coach Xabi Alonso under intense scrutiny.
Despite taking the lead through Rodrygo and showing early promise, Madrid’s defensive lapses and lack of creativity in the second half proved costly. City capitalised through Nico O’Reilly’s equaliser and an assured penalty from Erling Haaland. With only two wins in their last eight matches, Madrid’s push for a top-eight finish is now uncertain.
The club’s decision to rest Kylian Mbappé highlighted deeper fitness and tactical concerns that may accelerate managerial decisions.
