UFC icon Khabib Nurmagomedov has delivered a furious verdict on the inner turmoil at Real Madrid, blaming the club's star players for the sudden departure of manager Xabi Alonso.
Alonso's Abrupt Exit After Super Cup Defeat
The Spanish giants confirmed they had parted ways with Alonso by mutual agreement on Tuesday, a decision that came swiftly after a disappointing defeat to arch-rivals Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup. The former midfield maestro, who was a club legend as a player, had been in the role for just eight months of a planned three-year contract after being recruited from German side Bayer Leverkusen.
Despite a shaky start to the campaign, Real Madrid currently sit second in La Liga, only four points behind leaders Barcelona. A club statement expressed gratitude to Alonso, stating he would "always carry the affection and admiration of all Madridistas" and that Real Madrid would "always be his home." His successor has been confirmed as former Real and Liverpool defender Alvaro Arbeloa, who steps up from managing the club's reserve team.
Khabib's Scathing Social Media Critique
The news prompted a strong reaction from retired MMA champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, a self-confessed "big fan of Real Madrid." Taking to Instagram, 'The Eagle' did not hold back in criticising the playing squad.
"If you come into a gym or onto the pitch, it doesn't matter whether you're a fighter or a footballer - the head coach is in charge," Khabib wrote. He argued that if the team atmosphere prevents a coach's instructions being followed, then the problem lies with the players. He placed Alonso among the "top 3 coaches in the modern game" and insisted the solution was to change the squad, not the manager.
"I'm convinced no coach can cope with such a squad at Real. You need to get rid of the irregular players," he added pointedly. In a follow-up post, he was even more direct, stating: "A year ago, they were begging him. Now they've fired him. Because of these spoiled brats. Xabi, you're the best."
Strained Relationships and the Road Ahead
Alonso's short tenure at the Bernabeu was reportedly marred by a difficult relationship with Brazilian winger Vinicius Jr. The player reacted angrily to being substituted during a 2-1 win over Barcelona in October, sparking rumours of a rift. While Vinicius later apologised for his outburst, his statement notably did not mention Alonso.
The Spanish manager later downplayed the incident, saying the matter was settled after a team meeting where Vinicius was "impeccable." Real Madrid's next match is a Copa del Rey round of 16 tie against Albacete on Wednesday.
Khabib, who was seen supporting PSG in last season's Champions League final, has once again demonstrated his passion for football, turning his famed fighting spirit towards the drama unfolding in the Spanish capital.
