Madrid Didn’t Blink: Pellegrini on Alonso’s Departure

Background: Alonso's Departure

Chilean Manuel Pellegrini, Real Betis coach, commented on Real Madrid's dismissal of Xabi Alonso after only a few months in charge following Carlo Ancelotti's tenure.

Madrid announced Alonso's departure after a Spanish Super Cup loss to Barcelona, 3-2.

Pellegrini's Take

In remarks cited by Marca, Pellegrini said: "I feel deep sorrow for Xabi; he is a coach with a wonderful career."

He added: "It's not right to judge someone after just three or four months, but I don't have information about the reasons behind the decision."

Regardless of whether it helps the team or not, Real Madrid remains competitive in all three major competitions, trailing Barcelona by four points and still active in the Champions League and Copa del Rey.

"Every process takes time to develop; things can improve or deteriorate. As a coach, you depend largely on how patient the board is with you."

Alonso led Real Madrid in 34 matches across competitions, with 24 wins, 6 losses and 4 draws. The team scored 72 goals and conceded 38 under his leadership.

Punchline 1: In football, as in dating, you don’t judge after three or four months; the board must be using the same time-lapse app as the scoreboard.

Punchline 2: If this keeps up, even Real Madrid will start selling season tickets labeled "Performance Guaranteed Not Included".