Real Madrid’s season is at a point where every away match feels like a test of character, and the trip to Mendizorroza proved exactly that. On a tense night in Vitoria, Los Blancos secured a 2–1 victory over Alavés, a result that brings relief, restores some belief, and buys time — but also highlights the reality that the next few weeks could define the direction of the entire project.
Fast start, Mbappé strikes first
Madrid began with urgency, moving the ball with more purpose and pushing higher up the pitch to prevent Alavés from settling. The idea was clear: score early, control the tempo, and avoid turning the contest into a battle of nerves.
That early initiative paid off in the 24th minute, when Kylian Mbappé finished with the composure expected from a world-class forward. Madrid’s movement before the goal was sharp — the type of sequence that shows what this team can still be when the rhythm is right. With the lead in hand, the visitors tried to keep the ball and manage the game, but the match never truly felt safe.
Alavés respond, Madrid wobble
Alavés stayed brave and waited for their chance. Their energy and directness caused problems, especially whenever Madrid left spaces open in transition. After the break, Madrid had moments where they could have put the game away, but the second goal didn’t arrive — and that gave the home side hope.
That hope turned into a goal in the 69th minute as Carlos Vicente brought Alavés level at 1–1, punishing Madrid for a lapse at a critical moment. Suddenly, the pressure returned instantly. A match that Madrid had been controlling in phases became a fight for survival.
Vinícius creates, Rodrygo finishes
The response from Madrid was the most encouraging part of the night. Even after conceding, they didn’t collapse. They leaned into what they do best: pace, one-on-one threat, and ruthless execution in key moments.
With Alavés stepping forward, spaces began to open, and Madrid attacked them quickly. Vinícius Júnior delivered the decisive moment, driving forward and laying the chance into the perfect area for Rodrygo, who finished to restore Madrid’s lead and make it 2–1. It was the kind of goal that comes from trust and chemistry — two players who understand each other’s movements without needing a second invitation.
Madrid still had to suffer late on, as Alavés pushed for another equaliser, but the visitors held firm and saw the match out.
A big win — but not the final answer
This victory matters because it steadies a team that has looked fragile at times. It also matters because the squad has been stretched, and the performances haven’t always matched expectations. Madrid didn’t play a perfect match in Vitoria — far from it — but they showed the most important trait in difficult stretches: winning when the football isn’t flowing.
There were also moments of frustration, including at least one major incident in the area involving Vinícius that left Madrid furious, but the team refused to let controversy define the night.
Pérez has two candidates ready if the plan changes
While the players focus on the next match, the club’s leadership is watching the bigger picture. Inside Madrid, there is growing internal speculation about the long-term future of the bench — not as panic, but as preparation. If Xabi Alonso decides not to continue, or if results fail to stabilise, Madrid already have a clear contingency route.
Two names stand out:
- Álvaro Arbeloa, the current Castilla coach, is viewed as a strong internal option who represents continuity. As a former Madrid player with deep knowledge of the club’s identity, Arbeloa fits the model of a coach who can connect the first team to the academy and maintain stability without needing a long adaptation period.
- Zinedine Zidane, a figure with undeniable authority at Real Madrid, remains a natural reference whenever the club considers experience, calm leadership, and instant respect within the dressing room.
Another element that could change behind the scenes is the role of Antonio Pintus. The club’s renowned fitness specialist is widely respected. If a new structure is formed, it would not be surprising to see Pintus returning to a more central position — especially with Madrid’s physical demands and injury concerns always under the microscope.
What happens next
The win at Alavés gives Xabi Alonso a short window of relief — nothing more. At Real Madrid, the season never pauses, and the next run of results will be decisive. If Madrid build momentum, the project strengthens. If the team slips again, the current private discussions will quickly become unavoidable.
For now, Madrid leave Vitoria with three points, two goals, and one clear message: this team is still alive — and the next few weeks will decide everything.