Real Madrid closed the year with a 2–0 win over Sevilla at the Santiago Bernabéu, in a match that was far from convincing. Despite the scoreline, Matías Almeyda’s side threatened on several occasions and came close to causing an upset, only to be denied by an outstanding Thibaut Courtois, who once again proved decisive. The three points were vital for Xabi Alonso, allowing him to head into the break with a result that eases pressure around his future.

That context shaped Alonso’s brief but pointed appearance in the press room. The coach delivered a calm and measured message before ending his final press conference of the year: “We’re going to have time to analyze and reflect. It was a match we had to win. We’ve been in a difficult situation because of injuries. We can and want to do better, and we want to start the year in a better way.”

Before leaving, he wished the journalists happy holidays and added a telling final word: “Relax.” A short remark that sounded like a clear response to those calling for his dismissal.

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