Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso expressed confidence in his players’ support despite a 2-1 Champions League loss to Manchester City on Wednesday.

In the buildup to the game, Spanish media speculated that Alonso could be dismissed if Madrid fell to Pep Guardiola’s side, and home fans whistled the team after the match.

Despite the defeat, Alonso praised his squad, saying he was “grateful” for their effort, even though Real have won just twice in their last eight matches across all competitions.

“I feel the support of the players. We’re at the training ground every day together, preparing for the games,” Alonso told reporters.

The coach acknowledged Madrid’s consecutive losses but insisted there was nothing more he could ask from his players.

“The players are giving everything until their last breath, so I have nothing to reproach. I am very grateful for their attitude day-to-day, and we have to continue,” Alonso said.

He added: “The results are not what we want. We have to be self-critical, but we must keep working and believe this will pass. Everything passes, and I’m convinced we can do it.”

Following the match, Alonso received visible backing from his squad. Rodrygo, who scored his first goal in 33 matches, ran to hug the coach after putting Madrid ahead.

“It’s a difficult moment for us and for Alonso as well. Things aren’t going well, but we wanted to show people we’re united with the coach,” Rodrygo told Movistar. “We are together. We need this unity to keep moving forward and achieving our objectives.”

Defender Raul Asencio also emphasized the team’s support, saying they are with Alonso “100 percent.”

Madrid played without top scorer Kylian Mbappe, who missed the game due to knee discomfort that also kept him out of Tuesday’s training.

“It’s too soon to say if he will be fit for Sunday against Alaves in La Liga. Today he was obviously not ready,” Alonso said. “If he was, he would have played. If he’s not there, we miss him.”