Xabi Alonso arrived in the Saudi city of Jeddah as the head coach of Real Madrid's first team, at a moment considered one of the most sensitive periods in his career with the royal club, as they prepare to compete in the Spanish Super Cup.

The Spanish coach, whose recent tenure has been surrounded by doubts due to inconsistent results, unconvincing performances, and various circumstances the team has gone through, has managed to hold on until this date, which is viewed within the club as the final exam, starting with the match against Atlético Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final.

Alonso is well aware of the magnitude and importance of the Spanish Super Cup, especially since the opponent in the semi-final is Atlético Madrid, the first team this season to inflict real damage on Real Madrid's technical image.

What will happen in Jeddah will not be just match results, but a decisive factor in shaping the team's competitive future, and perhaps determining the fate of the coach himself, whether by confirming confidence in him or turning the rumors circulating for some time into a tangible reality.

With the change in the tournament system, the Super Cup now carries greater sporting weight than just an additional title, as it has become a message of strength and confidence for the rest of the season. Madridistas recall what happened last season when Real Madrid entered the Super Cup leading Barcelona in the league standings, but lost the Super Cup first, then the King's Cup, and finally the La Liga title to the Catalan team.

Alonso knows that football does not recognize promises, especially within a club of Real Madrid's stature. Just as Carlo Ancelotti previously survived a harsh defeat against Barcelona despite his precarious situation, the Spanish coach understands that what will happen in Jeddah could be a decisive and final turning point in his future with the royal club. These are the laws of the game... and especially at Real Madrid.