Xabi Alonso: “It’s a long season”
Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso has expressed his confidence that the team can turn around their current situation, after the 1-1 draw against Girona on Sunday, the third consecutive draw in LaLiga. Madrid fell behind on the scoreboard after Azzedine Ounahi’s goal in the 45th minute at Montilivi, before Kylian Mbappé equalized from the penalty spot, but the visitors failed to complete the comeback. The result leaves Madrid one point behind Barcelona, their rival, at the top of the table, and Barça will receive Atletico Madrid, who occupies fourth position, on Tuesday.Madrid started the season promisingly, winning 10 of their first 11 league games, but the draws in November against Rayo Vallecano, Elche and now Girona, along with a Champions League defeat against Liverpool, have raised doubts about Alonso’s project.We improved in the second half, we had more chances. We were not effective in getting the three points. But it’s a very long season and we have to move forward.
Xabi Alonso
Alonso also added that he had “no criticism” for his players after the match. I liked the reaction [to going behind on the scoreboard]. It wasn’t enough, but we were close. We have to stay united, with the necessary self-criticism, wanting to win with so many away games. We have an opportunity on Wednesday in Bilbao [against Athletic Club] and we’ll see. Alonso said it was “surprising” that the referee did not review a play in which substitute Rodrygo appeared to be fouled in the area.There are different phases in a season. At the beginning, we were more consistent away from home.
Xabi Alonso
I haven’t seen it, but I’ve been told that VAR might have reviewed it. These are decisive moments that can decide a match.
Xabi Alonso
