Khabib Nurmagomedov Backs Xabi Alonso, Blames Real Madrid Players After Firing
The UFC great’s posts heighten scrutiny of player power at Real Madrid beyond football circles.
Overview
- Real Madrid dismissed head coach Xabi Alonso a day after a 3-2 Spanish Super Cup loss to Barcelona, abruptly ending his contract.
- Khabib Nurmagomedov posted that Alonso is among the top coaches in modern football and argued the club should replace inconsistent players rather than the manager.
- The fighter also accused the squad of behaving like “spoiled kids,” reinforcing reports of strained authority under Alonso.
- Recent incidents cited include Kylian Mbappé appearing to overrule a proposed guard of honour after the final and a touchline dispute between Alonso and Vinícius Júnior.
- Alvaro Arbeloa has been installed to lead upcoming fixtures on an interim basis, as reactions from across sports keep attention on Madrid’s internal dynamics.