UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov has launched a blistering attack on Real Madrid’s squad, placing the blame for Xabi Alonso’s sudden dismissal squarely on the players.
“Change the Players, Not the Coach”: UFC Legend Khabib Rips Real Madrid Squad
The retired undefeated champion, renowned for his strict discipline, forcefully entered the football debate following the coach’s controversial exit.
Khabib stated that a team’s failure to follow a coach’s instructions signals a deep-rooted problem.
“If the team environment does not allow you to follow your instructions, something is wrong,” he declared. He argued that a loss of respect and clarity, not tactics, undermines elite teams.
The MMA icon strongly defended Alonso’s reputation, ranking him among the world’s best.
“I think Xabi Alonso is among the three best coaches in football today,” Khabib said.
“If a team doesn’t work with him, you have to change the players, not the coach.”
He criticized Real Madrid for abandoning a project with a top coach, suggesting the club management pandered to its stars.
“There is nothing like loyalty,” Khabib noted.
“A year ago, they begged him, and now they are firing him for the spoiled children.”
Khabib concluded that the issue lies with an inconsistent and powerful squad, not the manager.
He expressed doubt that any coach could successfully control the current group of players, insisting the club requires a major change in personnel, not leadership.
His final words offered unwavering support to Alonso: “Xabi, you are the best.”
