'Slow-burning bomb' shakes up Real Madrid's locker room after Liverpool defeat

Real Madrid is still enduring turbulence as rumors of discord within the team arise, focusing on how coach Xabi Alonso handles the locker room after the defeat against Liverpool.

Real Madrid has entered a sensitive phase of the season amid spreading rumors of internal unrest, especially after the 0-1 loss at Anfield. Whispers in the locker room have surfaced at a time when the team needs stability to maintain their campaign. This period also places Xabi Alonso’s image under scrutiny, creating a tense atmosphere that Real Madrid is eager to avoid.

The issue began when journalist Josep Pedrerol revealed on El Chiringuito that some Real Madrid players feel Xabi Alonso struggles to understand their emotions. Pedrerol emphasized the statement "Some players think Xabi is cold and disconnected from their feelings", prompting public attention to immediately focus on Real Madrid's locker room and the possible unrest that may have existed since the start of the season.

Additionally, Pedrerol mentioned that several players disagreed with Xabi Alonso’s tactical decisions at Anfield, particularly his choice to "put Arnold in an extremely difficult situation". This decision is believed to have further shaken the confidence within the Real Madrid squad, especially as the team faces two consecutive defeats, increasing the pressure rapidly. This inadvertently adds weight to suspicions of a hidden crisis.

The match at Anfield became even more difficult as Trent Alexander-Arnold, playing for Real Madrid, was repeatedly booed by Liverpool fans every time he touched the ball. The stark contrast with the cheers for other stars darkened the atmosphere. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, the best performer of the match, spoke out: "I don’t judge the fans, but I hope one day they can forgive Trent."

With Real Madrid’s internal matters under close examination, and recent off-field dramas fueling rumors, Xabi Alonso faces the crucial task of maintaining locker room unity — a vital factor for a club with high ambitions. Can Real Madrid restore stability before these doubts escalate into a more serious problem?

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