Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso offered a frank assessment after his team’s 2-0 defeat to Celta Vigo. He pointed to several factors. These included tactical disruptions, red cards, and refereeing decisions. The loss leaves Real Madrid four points behind LaLiga leaders Barcelona.
Williot Swedberg scored two second-half goals. These goals stunned the Santiago Bernabeu crowd on Sunday. Celta Vigo capitalized on Madrid’s mistakes. They also exploited moments of uncertainty.
The hosts finished with ten men. Fran García and Álvaro Carreras both received red cards. This made Real Madrid’s response even more difficult.
Alonso admitted Real Madrid never found their expected rhythm. This was especially true after Éder Militão’s injury. Militão’s early departure forced an immediate tactical reshuffle.
“We had planned the match after the Bilbao game,” Alonso stated. “We wanted to play at a good pace. We also aimed to pressure a strong opponent. We lacked in certain areas. The injury disrupted our strategy.”
He continued, “We struggled to react. Our best reaction almost came when we were already down to ten men.”
The Spanish coach also expressed frustration. He criticized referee Quintero González. Alonso argued that several decisions unsettled his players.
“The referee’s decisions drove us crazy,” Alonso commented. “The referee seemed eager to card Álvaro Carreras. The officiating was very poor. The time-wasting, overall, I disliked the refereeing.”
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