Spanish Supercopa
Madrid star Bellingham standing by Alonso and Vini
Jude Bellingham has shot down suggestions that Real Madrid's key players are able to overrule the tactics of under-fire head coach Xabi Alonso, as it prepare for Friday's (AEDT) Supercopa de Espana tie against Atletico Madrid.… Show More
Jude Bellingham has shot down suggestions that Real Madrid's key players are able to overrule the tactics of under-fire head coach Xabi Alonso, as it prepare for Friday's (AEDT) Supercopa de Espana tie against Atletico Madrid.
Alonso's first campaign back with Los Blancos has not gone to plan, with Madrid sitting four points behind Barcelona at the top of LaLiga.
There have also been reports that Alonso has clashed with many of Madrid's big-name players, with some claiming his relationship with Vinicius Junior is particularly strained.
But Bellingham insisted ahead of the Supercopa's Madrid derby that Alonso's players remain united behind the former midfielder and have not undermined him in any way.
"I don't have any power over the tactics or anything else. I'm not going to talk about that because it's false," Bellingham said in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where the Supercopa is being hosted.
"We've talked about the problems, but we know what is going on in the dressing room. We're with the coach; there's no debate about that.
"It's been positive, we are working to improve. I get along very well with everyone. If things aren't going well, then we sit down and talk. We're all fully behind the coach."
Bellingham also believes the criticism of Madrid's results this campaign has been overblown, adding: "We are second in LaLiga and well-placed in the UEFA Champions League.
"It is not a disaster. What happens tomorrow, which I hope will be a victory, should not influence anything, although it is not my decision."
Amid Madrid's chaotic campaign, reports have claimed Vinicius is unwilling to renew his contract, which is due to expire at the end of 2026-2027, while Alonso remains at the helm.
Asked about the Brazilian's importance, Alonso said: "There is a long season ahead, and Vini is going to be important.
"We need him at his best, enjoying himself on the pitch. When he does, he gives us that edge. We have to find him in good positions. He is fundamental for us."
Bellingham also insisted Madrid is a better team when Vinicius is at his best and talked up his qualities.
"Vini is under a huge amount of pressure as a player and as a person," the England star said.
"Sometimes the stuff he does on the pitch is through pure emotion. You have to think it's a human being doing those things, and that can add to the pressure of a block of form in front of goal.
"I see an electric player who can create something out of nothing. The goals don't tell the full story. We all know when he's at his best, we're a better team and he's a frightening player."
