Xabi Alonso’s short-lived spell as Real Madrid coach unravelled amid heavy defeats in big games, dressing-room ego clashes, tactical inconsistency and a lack of trust in young talent. Despite arriving with pedigree after a historic spell at Bayer Leverkusen, Alonso struggled to impose authority and clarity at Madrid, leading to his exit
14 January,2026 09:14 AM IST | Mumbai | Ronan Carvalho
Raphinha’s brace powered Barcelona to a dramatic 3-2 win over Real Madrid as they retained the Spanish Super Cup. Coach Hansi Flick praised the Brazilian’s intensity and mentality, saying his energy lifted the entire team. The victory has boosted Barcelona’s confidence as they aim to replicate last season’s domestic success
13 January,2026 09:53 AM IST | Jeddah (Saudi Arabia) | AFP
After Raphinha sent Barcelona ahead Vinicius Junior pulled Madrid level with a fine individual goal to kick-start a frenetic end to the first half in Jeddah
12 January,2026 09:07 AM IST | Jeddah (Saudi Arabia) | AFP
The Catalan giants laid down a marker in their semi-final encounter by thrashing Athletic Bilbao 5-0, while maintaining an astounding 80 per cent possession. Flick hopes his team can put up a similarly dominating display in the first ‘El Clasico’ of the year
11 January,2026 09:12 AM IST | Jeddah (Saudi Arabia) | AgenciesADVERTISEMENT
