Xabi Alonso receives great news ahead of the 'do or die' match

Coach Xabi Alonso joyfully announced that striker Kylian Mbappe is fit to play for Real Madrid in their upcoming away game against Alaves, and also stated that he is not surprised by the rumors surrounding his future at the Bernabeu.

Xabi Alonso’s position remains under scrutiny following a 1-2 home defeat to Manchester City in the recent Champions League match. According to ESPN, Real Madrid’s management held a meeting this week to discuss Alonso’s future amid the team winning only one of their last five La Liga matches. Alonso will be forced to win the remaining three La Liga games; otherwise, president Florentino Perez will dismiss him.

Good news for Alonso as his prized player Mbappe has returned. Alonso personally confirmed Kylian Mbappe is ready to play against Alaves: “Mbappe is fine and back with us. That is obviously very positive news.”

Mbappe has been included in Real Madrid’s squad list for the away match at Alaves. Center-back Dean Huijsen also returns to the lineup, becoming one of the three current first-team defenders alongside Antonio Rudiger and Raul Asencio. The presence of Mbappe and Huijsen eases Alonso’s concerns about squad depth.

In addition to injuries to Eder Militao, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Eduardo Camavinga, Real Madrid will also miss Alvaro Carreras and Fran Garcia due to suspensions following red cards in the recent home loss to Celta Vigo last weekend.

Alonso’s perspective is as follows: "“We have many concerns. Despite various challenges, Real is ready to overcome difficulties. Real still has strengths and enough squad depth to field 11 players. The hunger and fighting spirit will always be present. This is an important match.”

Entering this round, Real Madrid trails their direct competitor Barcelona by 7 points in the 2025/26 La Liga title race.

When asked about rumors of his imminent dismissal, Alonso remained calm: “I have been in football for many years. Nothing surprises me anymore. These are normal events, have happened before, and will happen again in the future. We must face them with the responsibility of our roles. The important thing now is to focus on working hard to change the situation.”