Bayer Leverkusen CEO Fernando Carro has launched a scathing critique of Real Madrid's hierarchy, accusing Florentino Perez of leaving Xabi Alonso "isolated" at the Bernabeu. The German club's chief claims the culture in the Spanish capital treats managers as a "necessary evil", contrasting it sharply with the support Alonso enjoyed at the BayArena.

Bayer Leverkusen chief Fernando Carro has taken aim at Real Madrid president Florentino Perez over his handling of coach Xabi Alonso's criticism.

Elsewhere, Real Madrid are struggling and there is increasing pressure on the position of the manager Xabi Alonso, while Hansi Flick's Barcelona look strong. Let's take a look our Power Rankings: It was a challenging weekend for the side coached by Mikel Arteta,

The two managers meet on Wednesday in a Champions League match that is already key to Alonso's future at Real Madrid

Arsenal are preparing a 'convincing offer' to sign a Real Madrid prospect who only just debuted on Sunday night - but does Mikel Arteta really need the teenager?

Xabi Alonso has already hinted that he would jump at the chance to manage Liverpool if Arne Slot is sacked in the near future. The current Reds manager is under immense pressure after overseeing a dreadful start to their Premier League title defence.