Xabi Alonso Demands Greater Defensive Commitment from Real Madrid Stars
Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso has urged key figures in the team, such as Vinícius Júnior and Kylian Mbappé, to improve their performance in defensive work. These statements come before the crucial group stage match of the Club World Cup against Salzburg. Real Madrid has earned four points in its first two matches, after drawing 1-1 with Al Hilal and defeating Pachuca 3-1. This puts them in a favorable position to advance to the round of 16, prior to the match against Salzburg on Thursday at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. Both Vinícius and Mbappé received criticism in the previous season, under the direction of Carlo Ancelotti, for their performance when they did not have possession of the ball.Alonso highlighted the importance of a compact defense and teamwork to improve overall performance. “The defense must move forward, the tighter we are in the spaces, the better. We have to improve that. We are working on it, and Vini too,” he stated. The coach praised the level of competition in the tournament, highlighting the good performance of the South American teams against the European ones.We all must defend, the 11 players on the field must be involved. They must understand how we want to press, we are all involved: Vini, Jude [Bellingham], Fede [Valverde], Kylian.
Xabi Alonso
In the event that Real Madrid tops Group H, they could face Manchester City in the knockout phase, a team they met in the last Champions League. However, Alonso denied that his team will consider this against Salzburg.It’s good for European football to see the level of competition outside. You see teams that are not seen so often, that are very good, at a good level. River [Plate], we will see them against Inter [on Wednesday], also the Brazilians. At the beginning [of the tournament] we all looked at the European teams, but I think this is good for football in general.
Xabi Alonso
Rodrygo, who did not participate as a substitute against Pachuca, has generated speculation about his future. Alonso expressed his satisfaction with the attitude of the Brazilian international.It’s not a good idea to think about not winning. That’s not a good message for anyone, to set a goal that isn’t clear. Obviously, I’m not blind, I’ve seen the draw, but we will play to win.
Xabi Alonso
He looks good, enthusiastic. The other day [against Pachuca] it was a technical decision, but he remains important, he is a special player. I think he will play an important role in the Club World Cup.
Xabi Alonso
