Alonso’s Quiet Apology: Real Madrid Boss Seeks Face-to-Face Reconciliation with Young Defender After Alavés Clash

What happened

Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid's manager, offered an apology to the young defender Victor Valdepinias after remarks about him following Deportivo Alavés in the latest La Liga round.

In a post-match press conference, he placed blame on the teenager for his first appearance with the side, stating that the goal came from one lapse, while the rest of the defense had been solid in every other aspect.

Private apology and explanation

Marca reported that Alonso decided to end the noise by speaking privately with the 19-year-old in the dressing room, attempting to apologize and explain his remarks.

The outlet noted that the coach made the remark to analyze the situation, but once it circulated and was interpreted as an attack, he sought to apologize to Valdepinias and acknowledge that the mistake came at an ill-timed moment.

Leadership and current form

Instead of hiding behind his position, Alonso chose to explain his stance face-to-face, stressing that he did not intend to expose the player; the gesture was described as reflecting his leadership style in the locker room.

Alonso has been under pressure due to Madrid's inconsistent results across competitions, despite wins in the last two matches in La Liga and the Copa del Rey.