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Real Madrid have sacked Xabi Alonso as their manager. The LaLiga giants have taken the decision less than 24 hours after they lost 3-2 to Barcelona in the SuperCopa final.
After the game, Alonso came out to say it was “the least important” competition they would play in.
“Real Madrid CF announces that, by mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to end his time as first team coach,” the statement from the club read.
“Xabi Alonso will always have the affection and admiration of all Madrid fans because he is a Real Madrid legend and has always represented the values of our club. Real Madrid will always be his home.
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“Our club thanks Xabi Alonso and his entire technical team for their work and dedication during this time, and wishes them the best of luck in this new stage of their lives.”
The former Spain midfielder had been under pressure for a while, as the team continues to struggle in LaLiga and the Champions League.
Madrid’s decision to part ways with Alonso, comes two days before their next fixture – a Round of 16 clash in the Copa del Rey against Albacete.
Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi and Ryan Alebiosu still have a chance of featuring for Nigeria at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, The Eastern Updates reports.
Ndidi sustained a hamstring injury in Nigeria’s quarter-final victory over the Desert Foxes of Algeria on Saturday.
The midfielder is already ruled out of the Super Eagles’ semi-final showdown with hosts Morocco due to suspension.
However, Ndidi will be available for the third-place match or the final.
According to the team’s media officer, Promise Efoghe, the Besiktas star is already walking freely, an indication that the injury is not serious.
Alebiosu has also continued to improve on his path to full fitness, according to Efoghe.
The right-back took part in training on Sunday night.
Nigeria have qualified for the semi-final of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The Super Eagles pulled off a stunning display to beat Algeria 2-0 in their quarter-final clash on Saturday evening, to book their spot.
