Former UFC champion slams Real Madrid for sacking Alonso

UFC great Khabib Nurmagomedov had a rant on Instagram following the sacking of Xabi Alonso, as he believes the club made a terrible mistake not backing the Basque tactician.

The 37-year-old retired mixed martial artist is a big Real Madrid fan, and the decision to terminate Alonso’s employment annoyed him enough to express his displeasure via social media.

Alonso’s struggle to keep the Real Madrid dressing room under his control contributed to his exit from the club. Khabib believes that it continues a worrying trend of excessive player power at the club.

“If you come into a gym or onto the pitch, it doesn’t matter whether you’re a fighter or a footballer—the head coach is in charge,” he shared on social media.

“But if the atmosphere inside your team doesn't allow everyone to follow your instructions, then you're definitely not on the right path.

“I believe Alonso is among the top 3 coaches in the modern game. If a team doesn’t work with him, you need to change the players, not the coach.

“I’m convinced no coach can cope with such a squad at Real. You need to get rid of the irregular players.”

As Pulse Sports reported, Real Madrid released a statement announcing the end of Xabi Alonso's tenure as the club's head coach following the Supercopa de España defeat to Barcelona.

The club announced via their official website, stating that the agreement was mutual. They praised his effort and dedication and wished him success in his future endeavours.

Moments after announcing Alonso's exit, the club released a statement which named Arbeloa as his successor. The statement detailed the former defender's impressive record as a youth coach and his trophy-laden career for club and country.