Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso gave a direct explanation for his team’s 2-0 loss to Celta Vigo. He highlighted tactical issues, red cards, and refereeing decisions. This defeat left Real Madrid four points adrift of LaLiga leaders Barcelona.
Williot Swedberg scored two second-half goals. These goals stunned the Santiago Bernabeu crowd on Sunday. Celta Vigo effectively capitalized on Madrid’s errors and moments of uncertainty. The home side also had two players sent off. Fran García and Álvaro Carreras received red cards. This made Madrid’s comeback attempt even harder.
Alonso admitted his team struggled to find their usual rhythm. This was especially true after Éder Militão’s injury. The injury forced an early change in plans.
Alonso explained, “We had planned to play at a good pace after the Bilbao game. We wanted to pressure a strong opponent. However, we fell short in certain areas. Militão’s injury further disrupted our strategy. We found it hard to respond. Surprisingly, our best reaction came when we were reduced to ten men.”
The Spanish manager also expressed his frustration with referee Quintero González. He believed several of the referee’s decisions unsettled his players.
Alonso strongly criticized the officiating. “The referee’s decisions drove us crazy,” he stated. “The referee seemed eager to card Álvaro Carreras. Overall, the refereeing was very poor. I did not like the time-wasting either.”
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