As Real Madrid occupies the top spot in LaLiga and holds a strong position in the UEFA Champions League, one would expect manager Xabi Alonso to feel secure. Yet, the reality is not so simple in the cutthroat arena of football politics, especially at a club as prestigious and demanding as Real Madrid.

Many fans express admiration for Alonso’s previous successes, but there’s a palpable tension following the recent 2-2 draw against promoted Elche. This match left supporters feeling frustrated, as Madrid appeared to be outplayed and salvaged a late equalizer from Jude Bellingham, which some believe should have been disallowed. This disappointing result marks the third consecutive game without a win, following lackluster performances against Liverpool and Rayo Vallecano, prompting outrage among sections of the fanbase, especially with Barcelona close behind in the title race.

Alonso, at just 44, strives to project optimism, insisting that his team is evolving and exhibiting resilience amid challenges. However, many observers find it difficult to identify any positives in recent performances, leading to overwhelming critical coverage in the media.

Voices of concern have emerged regarding a perceived "disconnect" between Alonso and his players, with critics suggesting he struggles to communicate his tactical vision effectively. Sports journalist Tomás Roncero, known for his loyal support of the club, voiced his worries after the Elche match, rating his anxiety at a four out of ten. Fans share this concern, fearing that if Alonso cannot re-establish rapport with his squad, this rating may escalate significantly.

The media landscape surrounding Real Madrid remains relentless, with major publications like Marca delivering harsh headlines such as "Madrid are suffering!" and "Alonso's starting to lose control of this!" Such messages resonate with both fans and analysts, illustrating a growing discontent towards the team's underwhelming performances.

One hot topic among fans is the relationship between Alonso and star player Vinícius Júnior. Following a controversial substitution in a match against Barcelona, speculation arose about the implications for Alonso’s authority, with many supporters expressing outrage at the handling of their star player. A recent article in Diario AS highlighted the urgency of renewing Vinícius' contract, subtly suggesting that Alonso needs to manage his key players more judiciously.

Alonso’s tactical choices have also come under scrutiny, particularly his decision to bench Vinícius and Federico Valverde during the match against Elche. While there may be sound coaching reasons behind these decisions, many fans perceive this choice as a misstep, interpreting it as a lack of faith in his players during a critical match. This has further complicated Alonso's standing with the squad.

The narrative of misunderstanding and a lack of connection between Alonso and his players has gained traction among supporters, hinting at deeper issues within the club. Some fans suspect that influential figures within the club or player agents may be feeding this narrative, fostering an atmosphere of uncertainty.

As Real Madrid gears up for an essential clash against Olympiacos, the tension is palpable. Critics have pointed fingers at the inadequacy of recent pre-seasons, while Alonso's prior success at Bayer Leverkusen has only amplified expectations. In a recent interview, Alonso admitted that clear communication of his tactical ideas is crucial, noting that they are futile if not conveyed effectively.

Despite the challenges, Alonso has garnered respect for his intelligence and adaptability as a coach from former teammates and analysts. However, his reluctance to engage with the media may prove problematic, leaving him without a supportive voice during these turbulent times.

Real Madrid is notorious for swiftly changing managers, with many coaches barely lasting a year under the current structure. Although it seems unfathomable that Alonso's job might be at risk, the sentiment among some fans suggests that the pressure is indeed mounting.