There is little to indicate from Xabi’s composure at press conferences the immense pressure he is under as Real Madrid’s head coach. Europe’s most successful club expects nothing less than positive results, and the relentless demand for victories is increasingly taking a toll on the former player. On the pitch, desired outcomes have been elusive, and reports suggest that several senior players may be rebelling against his methods. With results faltering, Xabi’s position is under serious threat, and failure to return the team to winning ways could cost him his job.
Los Blancos have gone winless in their last three league matches and have managed only a single victory in their last five competitive fixtures. This slump has allowed arch-rivals Barcelona to overtake them at the top of La Liga.
Adding to the pressure, tomorrow’s clash against Athletic Bilbao at the Santiago Bernabéu will serve as a critical test. Real Madrid suffered a 2-1 defeat at Bilbao’s home ground earlier this season, with key stars Vinícius Júnior and Kylian Mbappé unable to turn the tide. Another poor result could intensify calls for Xabi’s dismissal.
The team’s inconsistent performances have reportedly affected morale in the dressing room as well. Following Real’s Champions League victory over Olympiakos, rumours emerged that some players were dissatisfied with Xabi’s coaching style. Although the win temporarily eased tensions, another disappointing league result reignites internal pressure.
According to The Athletic, certain players continue to question the coach’s methods, while club insiders describe Xabi’s situation as “extremely challenging.” Madrid’s forthcoming matches are pivotal not only for results but also for the coach’s credibility. Under Xabi, Real started the La Liga campaign brilliantly with 10 wins in 11 games, but the momentum has now turned, leaving the former Bayer Leverkusen coach facing mounting scrutiny.