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Real Madrid have thrown their full support behind Xabi Alonso amidst rumours of player discontent, including from Vinicius Jnr.
Alonso joined the Bernabeu in the summer, taking the reins of the team where he previously played and won the Champions League. His impressive stint with Bayer Leverkusen, which saw him clinch the Bundesliga, has established him as a top-tier coach.
He was brought in to replace Carlo Ancelotti, but there have been internal grumblings as recent results have seen them lose ground in the La Liga title race. Their first Champions League loss of the season has also sparked reports of dissatisfaction. As a result, he's been loosely linked with a return to Liverpool - should the club part ways with under-fire Arne Slot.
Vinicius Jnr has been a standout performer for Los Blancos, but Alonso's decision to substitute him multiple times has led to an outburst from the Brazilian, who is currently in contract negotiations.
Despite this, Real have firmly backed their head coach, who they handed a three-year deal in the summer.
Marca reports that 'he is the boss', and the club's hierarchy have supported some of his more controversial decisions - including his management of Vinicius and various tactical changes, reports the Mirror.
Mundo Deportivo suggests that Fede Valverde, Brahim Diaz, Rodrygo and Ferland Mendy may have concerns about Alonso. However, the player-turned-manager has several supporters within the squad - including, perhaps crucially, Kylian Mbappe.
Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and young Turkish talent Arda Guler are also fans of Alonso.
When Jurgen Klopp announced his departure, 44 year old Xabi Alonso was a strong contender for the Liverpool job. However, the Reds ultimately chose Arne Slot.
Despite this, Alonso's ties to Anfield and his Champions League victory keep the possibility of his return alive.
Igor Biscan, a former Red who played alongside Alonso, told Boylesports: "Xabi Alonso as Liverpool manager? I think that's always a possibility. If he keeps on doing what he's doing, and to be successful and make a difference.
"Whenever you watch his teams, they are doing so well, they have a clear structure, and the quality is always there. Who wouldn't want to have a manager like him?".
Alonso experienced his only Champions League defeat earlier this month when he returned to Liverpool. His team, the Spanish giants, are currently in a good position to qualify in Europe.
Despite two consecutive draws in Spain, they maintain a one-point lead over Barcelona.
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