Xabi Alonso to Managing Madrid: “A Well-Balanced Squad is Essential”
Xabi Alonso to Managing Madrid: “A Well-Balanced Squad is Essential”
After Real Madrid’s 1-0 victory over Juventus in the Club World Cup on Tuesday, manager Xabi Alonso addressed the media. When Kiyan Sobhani of Managing Madrid inquired about players who could step into Aurelien Tchouameni’s role during his absence, Alonso responded: “Absolutely, others can take on that responsibility. We need a well-rounded squad. This situation isn’t reflective of the whole season; it’s a World Cup. For the regular season, we’ll have more options. Not every player will feature in every match, so we’ll need to find solutions accordingly.”
Alonso on the win
“It’s a great feeling. In this tournament, each match is do-or-die, and we’re pushing to keep going. We’ve reached the quarterfinals. The first round went well; we got better, could’ve scored more, and had opportunities to make it less stressful. But we didn’t really struggle. We’re improving and growing, and that’s what matters most.”
Alonso on what he liked most
“We understood when to push forward and when to hold back to manage the game. Picking the right moments is key. It takes time to get it right, but that understanding is crucial. Everyone played their part. The teamwork between the players on the field and the bench is essential.”
Alonso on Gonzalo Garcia
“I’m very happy for him and for the team. We urge him to continue like this. He’s performing very well, with goals and everything he contributes. He’s making the most of the minutes he has.”
Alonso on whether Garcia will stay beyond the CWC
“Today is the World Cup, we don’t analyze next season’s squad. There’ll be time for that. But I’m not going to score, no (smiles) . I didn’t expect three goals in four games. But he would work well, wear down the center backs, be persistent in pressing… all of that helps a lot. And if he scores these goals, then all the better. I trusted him, and he’s earning that trust.”
Alonso on Trent Alexander-Arnold
“The cross to Gonzalo is his trademark; he’s made 500 of those in his career. He placed it very carefully, in the right place. Although on the right we need an extra foot, because dribbling isn’t his thing, but rather link-up play. But we’re working on it. This is a challenge for him: Real Madrid, with almost no general training. Straight to the game. Everything takes time.”
Alonso on Kylian Mbappe’s fitness
“He’ll be there day by day. I talk to him every day to find out how he feels. We have three days to see him.”
Alonso on Arda Guler’s growing influence
“Not just him, it could be Aurélien, Dani… He’s doing well, I’m happy, but a team isn’t built by just one player; we’re on the path to strengthening that area of the pitch.”
Alonso on Fede Valverde
“He makes my life much easier, obviously. He’s a top player, very complete, does everything well, has grit, leadership on the pitch, and inspires his teammates. I’m very happy to be with many people, especially Fede.”
Alonso on defensive solidity
“Defensive solidity is key, everyone contributing. The lads are eager and willing to absorb the new players.”
Alonso on Vinicius Jr drifting to the left
“It depends on the game, he can do both. From the 25th minute onwards, we played better; the space was on the outside, because by insisting on the inside they would win back the ball, and that’s where the counterattack with Kolo Muani came from… We needed Vini on the outside, but he can play in both positions, depending on what’s needed.”
Alonso on whether Garcia could be benched
“I’m not going to the next game, I’m staying with today, when we’ve improved. It’s a new stage, and we’ve seen what we’ve done well. I’m happy for everyone.”
Alonso on his instructions
“It’s about being efficient, doing a lot with a little. We had to adjust things. We were able to change, with patience, developing the game, to play in their half. We needed a second chance to give us more leeway.”
