Xabi Alonso Highlights the Importance of Real Madrid’s Victory Against Olympiacos
Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso analyzed his team’s 4-3 victory against Olympiacos in the Champions League. The win came after three winless matches, which had generated pressure on the team and the coaching staff. Kylian Mbappé was the figure of the match, scoring four goals, including a hat-trick in just seven minutes. Vinícius Júnior contributed with two assists, consolidating Real Madrid in the qualifying phase with 12 points. Real Madrid arrived at the match in Greece after a defeat against Liverpool and draws against Rayo Vallecano and Elche. This generated criticism of Alonso’s tactics and rumors about possible tensions in the relationship with key players.Alonso also highlighted the team’s unity and awareness of the season’s demands. The relationship between Alonso and Vinícius has been the subject of attention, especially after some substitutions of the forward and his reaction in the Clásico.“Today it was important to change the dynamic. It was important in terms of classification [of the group stage], and with the moment we are in”.
Xabi Alonso
Alonso also praised Mbappé’s “personality” and “leadership”, highlighting his influence on the team. Mbappé currently leads the top scorer table in both LaLiga and the Champions League.“It’s a shame that Vinícius’ goal was disallowed. We had talked about that type of play, it was a typical goal of his.”
Xabi Alonso
“There are things to improve, of course. I know people talk a lot from the outside. It’s normal for people to talk when you play for Real Madrid. We have to protect the players, the coach, the staff. We are all in this together. I’m not going to say we’re against those on the outside, but we are together. I know the fans are with us”.
Kylian Mbappé
