Real Madrid Part Ways with Xabi Alonso as Jude Bellingham Denies Player Revolt

Key facts

• Real Madrid and Xabi Alonso have officially parted ways.
• Jude Bellingham confirmed that players still support Alonso 100%.
• Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 970 career goals.
• Gareth Bale revealed he turned down Manchester United despite a higher offer to join Real Madrid.
• Real Madrid reached an agreement with UEFA to end the Super League dispute.
• José Mourinho questioned why Vinícius Júnior faces racism accusations everywhere he plays.
• Real Madrid declared Sergi Ibáñez a free agent.
• Hanna Bennison has joined Real Madrid's women's team.

Alonso's Exit Confirmed Amidst Media Speculation

Real Madrid has officially announced the departure of head coach Xabi Alonso, bringing an end to his tenure at the Santiago Bernabéu. The decision, confirmed by the club on Monday, follows weeks of intense media speculation linking Alonso with a move away from the Spanish capital. Jude Bellingham, the England international midfielder, moved quickly to dismiss rumors of a player revolt. In a fiery response to the press, Bellingham stated that the squad remains 100% behind Alonso, rejecting suggestions that the players had undermined the coach.

Bellingham Denies Player Unrest

Addressing reporters after training, Bellingham expressed frustration with what he described as baseless media narratives. He emphasized that the team's relationship with Alonso has been strong and that any talk of a rift is unfounded. claimed that senior players had grown disillusioned with Alonso's tactics. Bellingham, however, insisted that the squad is united and focused on the season ahead.

Alonso's Fitness Update on Mbappé

Prior to his departure, Alonso provided an update on the fitness of star forward Kylian Mbappé, who has been sidelined with a minor injury. The former midfielder stated that Mbappé is progressing well and is expected to return to full training soon. Mbappé's absence has been felt in recent matches, with Real Madrid struggling to maintain their attacking fluidity. The club will be eager to have the French international back as they navigate a congested fixture list.

Real Madrid Settles Super League Dispute with UEFA

In a separate development, Real Madrid has reached an agreement with UEFA to formally end their involvement in the proposed European Super League. The club, which was one of the founding members of the breakaway competition, has now committed to the existing UEFA framework. The resolution marks a significant shift in the club's stance, which had previously been defiant in the face of widespread criticism. Financial penalties and conditions of the settlement have not been disclosed.

Mourinho Questions Vinícius Racism Claims

José Mourinho, the former Real Madrid manager, has raised doubts about the frequency of racism allegations involving winger Vinícius Júnior. In a recent interview, Mourinho suggested that the Brazilian's claims of racial abuse at various stadiums may be exaggerated. Vinícius has been subjected to racial slurs and monkey chants on multiple occasions, prompting widespread condemnation. Mourinho's remarks have sparked debate, with many accusing him of downplaying the issue.

Bale Reveals Manchester United Rejection

Gareth Bale has disclosed that he turned down a move to Manchester United in favor of joining Real Madrid, despite the Premier League club offering a higher transfer fee. The Welsh winger, who spent six seasons at the Bernabéu, said he was determined to play for the Spanish giants. Bale's revelation adds another chapter to the storied rivalry between the two clubs in the transfer market. The 34-year-old, now retired, won four Champions League titles with Real Madrid.

Cristiano Ronaldo Reaches 970 Career Goals

Cristiano Ronaldo has reached a remarkable milestone, scoring 970 goals across his professional career. The Portuguese superstar continues to add to his tally, playing for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia. Ronaldo's goal-scoring record includes stints at Sporting Lisbon, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and the Portuguese national team. His longevity and consistency have cemented his status as one of the greatest players in history.

The bottom line

• Real Madrid has officially parted ways with head coach Xabi Alonso.
• Jude Bellingham has denied any player revolt, stating the squad supports Alonso 100%.
• The club has settled its Super League dispute with UEFA.
• Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 970 career goals, a testament to his enduring brilliance.
• Gareth Bale turned down Manchester United to join Real Madrid, despite a higher offer.
• José Mourinho has questioned the validity of Vinícius Júnior's racism claims.