Jude Bellingham reveals what Real Madrid dressing room thinks of Xabi Alonso | OneFootball

Jude Bellingham faced the cameras after Real Madrid’s latest setback, this time a 1–2 defeat to Manchester City in the Champions League, and the midfielder chose to focus on unity rather than frustration. 

Speaking to TNT Sports (h/t AS), the English international highlighted his trust in Xabi Alonso and his belief that the team has the character to recover despite a difficult run of form.

Bellingham made it clear how highly he regards Alonso. He said, 

“The manager is great. I personally have an excellent relationship with him. And I know many of my teammates do too.” 

Analysing the situation

Bellingham then shifted to analysing the team’s worrying sequence of results. 

Madrid have stumbled through a period marked by draws and now back-to-back defeats at home. 

Explaining how the players have confronted the situation behind closed doors, he added,

“After the run of draws, we had some very good internal discussions and we feel we’ve put that streak behind us, except for the last two matches. 

“Nobody is giving up, nobody is complaining or lamenting. We keep trying to resolve things in the locker room regardless of what’s happening outside. 

“We know that doesn’t help. But the locker room has what it takes to turn the situation around. 

“Maybe we need a bit of luck or to discuss something internally,” he explained.

Incident with Haaland

Despite the tension surrounding Madrid’s performances, Bellingham also showed his competitive edge during the match. 

The Englishman attempted a brief psychological ploy when his former Borussia Dortmund teammate Erling Haaland stepped up to take the penalty that restored City’s lead. 

As captured by the cameras, Bellingham tried to unsettle the Norwegian by reaching for the topknot in his hair. 

Ruben Dias quickly intervened, allowing Bellingham only the slightest touch. The attempt had no effect, as Haaland calmly converted the spot-kick past Thibaut Courtois.