According to reports, club officials at Valdebebas are concerned by recent performances, though they are resisting any temptation to overreact. The directors believe the upcoming international break, running from November 10 to 18, will provide Alonso with valuable time to regroup and address tactical issues that have emerged in recent matches.

After a dramatic 2-1 El Clasico victory over Barcelona on October 26, Real Madrid appeared set for another dominant run. Instead, momentum faded quickly. Los Blancos slipped to a 1-0 defeat against Liverpool in the Champions League on November 4 before being held to a goalless draw by Rayo Vallecano in La Liga on November 9.

Those results have prompted questions about the team's fluidity and attacking rhythm. Despite sitting top of La Liga and still competing in Europe, the board are said to recognise echoes of last season's late dip in consistency.

Club insiders reportedly view the recent displays as disjointed and over-reliant on individual brilliance. Real Madrid's attacking play has leaned heavily on Kylian Mbappe's goals and Vinicius Junior's bursts of pace, while Thibaut Courtois has often been called upon to keep them in matches.

Some within the club are believed to be wondering whether Alonso's tactical intensity has waned in recent weeks. The team that began the season with precision and collective energy has appeared increasingly predictable in possession.

Nevertheless, confidence in Alonso's long-term project remains strong. Real Madrid officials believe the framework he has put in place is sound and that short-term struggles will be corrected once players return from international duty.

"The club's position remains calm," a source close to the board reportedly said. "There is full trust in Xabi Alonso and the process he is building."

Real Madrid will return to La Liga action on November 23 against Elche, knowing that a positive response after the break could quickly silence doubts and restore momentum in their pursuit of another league and European double.

Siboniso Conco on trial at Richards Bay, explains chairman Jomo Biylela