Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso spoke ahead of the Copa del Rey tie with Talavera de la Reina from Valdebebas on Tuesday, and addressed his start in the job and said that, “the Xabi who arrived in June is not the same as the one now. Essentially, yes. But I’ve learned things, I’ve had to adjust things about myself, and there’s been progress. It’s normal, we’re evolving. And the important thing is that it’s for the better. There’s still a way to go.” Asked to explain further, he added that he has changed,
“as a coach, as a manager… you learn everything. We’re working on it, and so are the players. If we’re a better team in March than we are now, that will be good news. And if we’re better at the end of the season, even better. There are going to be phases this season.”
Xabi Alonso on Talavera de la Reina
“We always know that the cup is a special competition. It gives you the opportunity to face teams like Talavera, but it’s also a competition where big surprises happen. We’re going into it with the same respect and preparation as always. We’re ready.”
Xabi Alonso on the importance of attitude
“These are days when you have to prepare for the game tactically, physically, and mentally. The conditions are different from what we are used to, and preparing with the right attitude will be essential.”
Xabi Alonso on the ‘Negreira case’
“We share the position of the club and the president. The most important thing is that, for the good of soccer, the truth about what has happened comes out.”
Xabi Alonso on Endrick’s situation
“You know I don’t like to give too many clues to the opposition. He will be in the squad, of course. We’re not thinking about after the break: we still have Talavera and Sevilla to play, and we’re counting on everyone. ‘Bobby’ certainly has options.”
Xabi Alonso on needing more from his players
“That’s your interpretation. From the inside, we have always fought for the same goals. We know that there are good moments and not-so-good moments. And unity is essential. We are getting to know each other better, we all know what moments there are. The focus is on what’s coming in the next four days, on finishing well before the break. Always with the ambition to improve.”
Xabi Alonso on Kylian Mbappé being three goals away from Cristiano’s record
“We’ve always thought about the best decisions to make the best team for each game.”
Xabi Alonso on his relationship with the board
“The situation, before and after, remains the same: we maintain good communication. We’re in this together, each with our own roles.”
Xabi Alonso on the referees’ statement against Real Madrid
“It’s legitimate for everyone to defend their interests. Anyone who feels aggrieved should speak up. That’s exactly what we’re doing.”
Xabi Alonso on whether Barça’s titles are tarnished
“No, no. I’m not going to get into that.”
Xabi Alonso on Víctor Valdepeñas and his youth academy philosophy
“I think Valdepeñas’ debut was very good news. Historically, I’ve seen and experienced many players who have been in the right place at the right time and have been able to seize the opportunity. I don’t have any scripts or limits; it’s the pitch that gives you what you need and takes it away. If there are players who deserve to play, they’ll get their chances. I was very happy for Víctor and congratulated him because he helped us win the game. I think there will be more opportunities.”
Xabi Alonso on Rodrygo scoring in two games in a row
“I’m really glad you asked me that question because Rodrygo’s form has been great news. Not only because of his goals, but also because of the role he’s playing as a fourth midfielder or third striker. Those positions are a little bit undetectable because of his quality, he’s giving us defensive balance… and if you add goals to that, with the quality he’s always had… his goals were very important.”
Xabi Alonso on his approach against a lower-ranked opponent
“It’s a game you have to prepare for mentally because they’re different situations. We don’t want any surprises, we want to be reliable. For tomorrow, we want to field a competitive team so we can advance.”
Xabi Alonso on whether he’s enjoying the job or suffering
“The job means you have to know what you have to do at all times. I enjoy this opportunity, in the good times and in the not-so-good times. It’s a source of pride.”
