Real Madrid ended their losing streak with a 4-1 victory over Real Valladolid, but coach Santiago Solari remained noncommittal about his future following a turbulent match at the Jose Zorrilla Stadium.
Asked if the game might be his last as head coach, Solari responded, "I cannot answer that. Tomorrow we have a training session and that is what I focus on." The result came after a chaotic first half that included a power outage before kickoff, a red card for Casemiro, and two controversial VAR decisions that canceled goals for Sergi Guardiola.
Karim Benzema scored twice, including a penalty, while Raphael Varane and Luka Modric added goals for Madrid. Valladolid took an early lead through Anuar Tuhami but failed to capitalize on multiple chances, including Guardiola hitting the post and Ruben Alcaraz missing a penalty.
Solari acknowledged the team's struggles, stating, "The first 20 minutes reflected that and it cost us, but the rest of the game they showed their professionalism." However, defender Nacho hinted at tensions, saying, "The relationship (with Solari) right now is complicated because things are not working out."
The win kept Madrid third in La Liga but did little to ease concerns about Solari's tenure, which is expected to end in the summer unless results improve or a new manager is appointed. Rumors of Jose Mourinho and Zinedine Zidane returning have persisted amid the uncertainty.
