Loyalty, Drama, and a Madrid Shake-Up: Habib on Alonso’s Exit
14 January 2026
Alonso's Real Madrid departure sparks shock among fans
Habib Nurmagomedov, a legendary MMA fighter and devoted Real Madrid supporter, expressed surprise as the club announced Xabi Alonso's departure on Monday.
Nurmagomedov, who follows Madrid on social media, criticized some players and the club’s management while backing Alonso.
He said: "I believe Xabi Alonso is among the world's top three coaches today. If the team can't succeed with him, the issue is the squad, not the coach. I doubt any coach could manage this lineup at Real Madrid. We should move on from volatile players."
The exit, he added, stemmed partly from players unhappy with his methods, something he refuses to tolerate. "Whether fighters or footballers, the coach is responsible. If your team doesn't meet all your players' demands, you're not on the right path."
He wrapped up: "Loyalty matters. A year ago they begged him; now they fire him because pampered kids. Xabi, you are the best."
Context: Copa del Rey dialogue
A separate note referenced an upcoming Copa del Rey clash between Albacete Balompié and Real Madrid on 14 January 2026 at 21:00, underscoring Madrid's ongoing domestic distractions.
Credit to Getty Images for the photo used with the article.
Punchline 1: Real Madrid may shuffle managers, but the real drama deserves its own trophy. Punchline 2: If loyalty were a goalkeeper, Alonso would have saved this season by now.
