Khabib Nurmagomedov Blasts Real Madrid Squad Over Xabi Alonso Sacking
Former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov has voiced strong criticism following Real Madrid's decision to sack head coach Xabi Alonso. The longtime supporter of the Spanish football club expressed clear frustration with the move.
Alonso's Sudden Exit Sparks Controversy
Real Madrid parted ways with Alonso after the team lost the Spanish Super Cup final to rivals FC Barcelona earlier this week. Alonso only took charge of the club last June, making his coaching tenure last less than a full year.
The sudden dismissal has generated significant debate among football fans and former players alike. Many are questioning the timing and reasoning behind the decision.
Nurmagomedov Questions Loyalty in Football
Nurmagomedov shared his disappointment through an Instagram Stories post shortly after the dismissal was confirmed. The former champion directed his criticism primarily at the Real Madrid squad rather than the coach.
"Loyalty no longer exists in football," Nurmagomedov stated in his message. He pointed out that the club had strongly supported Alonso just one year ago but removed him quickly due to what he described as "spoiled players."
The former UFC fighter ended his message by praising Alonso directly, calling him "the best."
Fan Reactions and Alonso's Legacy
Nurmagomedov's comments quickly gained attention across social media platforms. Many fans agreed with his perspective, while others acknowledged that coaching changes represent football's harsh reality.
Alonso's reputation as a player remains highly respected. During his playing career at Real Madrid starting in 2009, he won multiple major trophies and established himself as a key midfield figure. His brief coaching spell ended before he could fully implement his vision for the team.
Nurmagomedov's Previous Football Opinions
This isn't the first time the former champion has shared strong views about football. Last year, Nurmagomedov was asked to choose between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in the ongoing debate about football's greatest player.
While expressing great admiration for Ronaldo, Nurmagomedov ultimately gave the edge to Messi. He explained that before the World Cup, he felt certain about his preference. However, after Messi led Argentina to World Cup victory, the achievement became impossible to ignore.
"Messi won everything there was to win," Nurmagomedov noted. He compared Messi's career to a long drama finally reaching its proper conclusion, suggesting the story felt complete.
The former UFC star's willingness to speak openly about football continues to draw attention from both combat sports and football communities worldwide.