There is no comfort, no safety net, and no margin for error for Real Madrid heading into tomorrow’s match against Alavés. With the title race offering little forgiveness and the squad stretched to its absolute limit,

Real Madrid predicted lineup vs. Alavés (4-2-3-1): Courtois; Valverde, Tchouaméni, Asencio, Huijsen; Ceballos, Güler; Rodrygo, Bellingham, Vinicius Junior; G. García.

It was Madrid who took the lead in a frantic first half, Rodrygo ending a 32-game personal scoring drought by firing low past Gianluigi Donnarumma. City responded through Nico O’Reilly, who scored from close range following a corner, then won a penalty when Erling Haaland was bundled to the floor by Antonio Rudiger.

Everything was looking rosy for Xabi Alonso after a thumping 4-0 home win over Valencia on November 1, which was Real Madrid's 13th victory out of 14 games across all competitions in the first few months of the season.

It's back to La Liga action for Real Madrid after their 2-1 Champions League loss in midweek to Manchester City. They are back on the road as they face Alaves a

Even for Real Madrid, this has been an exceptionally dramatic week. The tensions and turbulence around Xabi Alonso came to a head after Sunday’s shambolic 2-0 home defeat against Celta Vigo in La Liga. It put his position in serious jeopardy, following a torrid run of form that has left them four points behind Clasico rivals Barcelona.

Barcelona fans enjoyed themselves on Saturday night as they watched Raphinha score twice to beat Osasuna 2-0 at Camp Nou. The win sees Hansi Flick’s side extend their lead at the top of the table over Real Madrid to seven points with Los Blancos in action on Sunday against Alaves.

Sports Illustrated rounds up the latest transfer rumors and gossip from around the world. Liverpool’s three-player shortlist to replace Ibrahima Konaté, should be end up leaving Anfield on a free transfer,