"What is wrong with Xabi?", "So unpredictable" - Real Madrid fans react as XI to face Juventus in UCL clash revealed

Real Madrid fans have reacted to news of the XI put out by manager Xabi Alonso for their UEFA Champions League meeting with Juventus. The Spanish giants are set to host Italian opposition as they look to extend their perfect record in the competition this season.

Former Bayer Leverkusen boss Alonso saw his side labour to a 1-0 win over Getafe in LaLiga at the weekend and decided to shuffle his pack. The Spaniard made four changes to the XI that played in that game, bringing in the quartet of Brahim Diaz, Vinicius Jr, Arda Guler, and Raul Asencio.

Real Madrid fans have been left perplexed by the consistency with which Alonso rotates his players this season. A number of these fans have taken to X to complain about this strategy, which they do not agree with.

A fan pointed out that Alonso has yet to field the same starting XI in successive games since taking over.

Another fan was amused by the unpredictability of the former Los Blancos midfielder with his team selection.

A fan expressed their worry that there was greater sense of confidence under Alonso's predecessor Carlo Ancelotti which has been replaced by anxiety under the Spaniard.

Another fan questioned what the problem with the manager is.

Alonso has opted against playing defender David Alaba, midfielder Eduardo Camavinga, and forwards Rodrygo and Franco Mastantuono from the start against Juventus. All four players started and were substituted off in the second half of the win over Getafe on Sunday.

Premier League trio linked with wantaway Real Madrid star Endrick: Reports

Real Madrid striker Endrick is a target for a host of Premier League sides for the January transfer window, as per talkSPORT. The Brazilian teenager has struggled for game time at the Santiago Bernabeu and appears set to leave the club in search of minutes.

The report from talksSPORT has named West Ham, Aston Villa, and Tottenham Hotspur as suitors for Endrick, who wishes to move on loan in the winter. The 19-year-old has not kicked a football in five months for Xabi Alonso's side due to a combination of injuries and selection decisions.

Endrick has been named on the bench for Real Madrid in each of their last six games since returning to full fitness, including today's game against Juventus. With the FIFA World Cup set to take place next summer, the former Palmeiras youngster will look to play regularly in the second half of the season.

About the author

Sulayman is a European and international football writer at Sportskeeda covering news and transfer rumors. He has an overall experience of 4 years, having previously worked at the likes of SportsRation and ExtraTimeTalk. His tryst with the sport happened at a young age, playing it at home and watching the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

Sulayman has a good feel for the game, which is reflected in his descriptive articles. He double checks information via multiple sources for accuracy, and only uses top-tier platforms like Transfermarkt and Opta for statistical information. His experience and exploits in the industry have led Sulayman to cover the Nigerian Professional League for three years along with games involving the Nigerian national team. He has also worked in F1, joining hands with industry veterans to provide a smooth viewing experience in Nigeria.

Sulayman hails Lionel Messi as the one true GOAT, and his brace in Argentina’s 2005 U20 FIFA World Cup final win over Nigeria left a lasting impact on him. He also supports Chelsea at club level, having followed their dominance under Jose Mourinho. Sulayman also follows other leagues with Nigerian players like Eredivisie, Saudi Pro League, Turkish Super Lig, and more. When not writing, he enjoys cooking and eating.

Know More

Edited by Sulayman Salahudeen