Under-pressure Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has privately apologized to young defender Victor Valdepenas following critical public comments made after the team’s recent win over Alaves.
Xabi Alonso apologizes to Real Madrid teenager after public criticism
The incident occurred after the match, when Alonso identified Valdepenas as having “failed” in the build-up to Alaves’s equalizing goal.
The 19-year-old was making his first-team debut at left-back, stepping in due to multiple injuries in the squad.
While his overall performance was seen as solid, the manager’s blunt assessment was a harsh welcome to the senior side.
According to Marca, Alonso sought out the teenager after his post-match press conference to explain his remarks and offer an apology.
He further attempted to balance his criticism by publicly praising Valdepenas ahead of Madrid’s midweek Copa del Rey victory.
This deliberate act of man-management is seen as a significant gesture at a time when Alonso is reportedly facing discontent within parts of the dressing room.
The apology comes against a backdrop of intense speculation about Alonso’s own future.
The manager, who only took charge last summer, is widely believed to be fighting for his job amid a challenging season.
While the team has secured recent wins, the campaign has been marked by inconsistent performances, including a disappointing draw with Elche earlier this month.
Alonso is expected to remain in charge for Real Madrid’s crucial Saturday clash with Sevilla at the Bernabeu. However, club officials are viewing the match as pivotal.
Another disappointing result could potentially spell the end of his brief tenure in the Spanish capital, making his efforts to mend relationships within the squad even more urgent.
