Real Madrid News
No contact between Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso and Liverpool despite rumours – Romano
Xabi Alonso has lately been linked with a shock move to Liverpool as the Spaniard faces constant scrutiny over his role as head coach of Real Madrid.
A string of poor results have put Alonso under the microscope and it appears any mishap in tomorrow’s game against Manchester City could result in a potential sacking.
Rumours suggest Alonso could emerge as a serious candidate for Liverpool to replace Arne Slot, provided he is let go of by Real Madrid.
No talks between Alonso and Liverpool
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has offered some light into Xabi Alonso’s situation at Real Madrid, amid recent links to Liverpool.
The journalist confirms that the Reds are yet to hold any talks with Alonso regarding a potential managerial position at Anfield.
Alonso, for his part, was recently asked about the links to Liverpool during the pre-match press conference ahead of the Man City game.
The Spaniard replied by admitting he is happy at Real Madrid and wants to continue. But he also revealed that he has a bond with Liverpool, having played for the club for five years during his career.
But it appears Liverpool have not taken any steps to bring in Alonso and for now, retain full faith in Slot despite the recent problems.
Alonso, for his part, is not thinking about a move to Anfield either. He is rather focused on turning his situation around at Real Madrid.
A win against Man City this week, for example, could go a long way in helping Alonso earn the trust of the board, who have reportedly identified two candidates to replace Alonso on an interim basis should he face the axe.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. admits finishing problem after another frustrating night vs Elche: ‘Can’t miss that much’
Vinicius Jr.’s difficult start in front of goal continued against Elche, and the Real Madrid forward did not need anyone to tell him he had missed another chance to make the difference.
The Brazilian finished the night without a goal despite having chances to get on the scoresheet, while his teammates could only watch from the bench as opportunities went begging.
Jose Mourinho had already identified the problem before kick-off, bluntly pointing to the issue facing his forward, stating, “He’s missing the goal.”
Vini offered an equally frank assessment afterwards.
Rather than hide from another frustrating evening, he accepted responsibility on social media: “The goals will come back; I can’t miss that much…”
Two chances, no finish for Vinicius
Vinicius had two particularly clear openings against Elche, but neither produced the finish Real Madrid needed from their star forward.
The first arrived when he found himself one-on-one with the opposition goalkeeper.
Instead of finding the net, Vinicius caught the ball with the tip of his foot and sent his effort wide. Arda Guler was available during the move and called for the ball, but Vini backed himself to finish the chance.
He had another opportunity after the interval, this time following an excellent pass from Guler during a quick Real Madrid transition. Again, though, Vinicius could not find the target.
His evening ended in the 68th minute, with Mourinho deciding the Brazilian was tired and turning his attention towards Sunday’s Atletico Madrid derby.
Mourinho has a bigger decision to make
The numbers show why Vinicius’ finishing has become a talking point. He managed five shots against Elche, but only one was on target and none found the net.
After seven appearances this season, the Brazilian has scored just once, which is a striking return for a player Real Madrid rely upon to provide a major share of their attacking threat.
Ultimately, though, Real Madrid found another route to victory, with Arda Guler, Kylian Mbappe and Carlos Espi providing the goals in the 3-2 comeback.
