In his first official appearance as a coach of Real Madrid, the Spanish Xabi Alonso put the features of his artistic project on the table, stressing that “collective identity and discipline” will be the basis of success, during the press conference that preceded the upcoming confrontation against Al Hilal Saudi in the 2025 Club World Cup, scheduled for Wednesday evening at the “Hard Rock” stadium in Miami, USA.
Collective identity and a new way
“We start from scratch, we have 11 players that must be organized as one offensive and defensive bloc. Winning is important, but the way we achieve the most important victories,” Alonso said. He pointed out that what Carlo Ancelotti left is a “great legacy”, and that he aspires to build his own style from this basis.
Praise
Alonso praised the English star Jude Bellingham, describing him as a “full midfielder”, capable of covering the spaces and contributing to construction and scoring alike. As for Killian Mbappe, who is absent from the exercises due to fever, he said: “He felt a slight improvement, but the heat was high, so we preferred to give him comfort. We will decide the morning of the match.”
Alonso saw that Mbappe is not a box striker, but “dynamic and moving”, which he wanted from all the team’s strikers. He also praised Modric’s leader in the dressing room, and described the relationship between them as “solid”. He was also satisfied with the development of Rodrigo and Sibaios, and a positive interaction from the new arrivals Arnold and Mastantono.
About Al -Hilal: A solid competitor led by an expert trainer
On the confrontation of Al -Hilal, Alonso described him as a “strong and stubborn opponent”, noting that he possesses influential players such as Mitrovic, Savic, and Malcum, and added: “Inzaghi is a smart coach who has previously reached the Champions League final, he will constitute a real challenge for us.”
He also talked about hot weather in Miami, stressing that it is “a natural challenge that must be adapted to”, without reducing its physical effect on the performance on the field.
Focus on young people and a long -term vision
Alonso praised Andrik and Arda Goller, stressing that the adaptation of young players needs time, noting that even Luka Modric has not shined since the first season. He also expressed his admiration for Franco Mastantono, the player expected to join River Plate, saying: “His maturity outside the field surprised me … he has an excellent present and a promising future.”
A clear message to the players
Alonso concluded the conference with an explicit message: “What we cannot miss tomorrow is the desire to win and the spirit of the team. We have to respect the logo always. The players are excited, and everything new for them … tomorrow the music begins, tomorrow the rock & roll begins.”
