Xabi Alonso has urged calm at Real Madrid as the pressure ramps up following a defeat to Liverpool and a frustrating draw with Rayo Vallecano, insisting the club is fully aware of the standards expected ahead of Sunday’s visit to Elche.
Speaking to the press after the international break, the Madrid boss acknowledged the criticism over back to back matches without a goal, but said there was no need for panic. “We know where we are and the demands of Real Madrid, and everything that comes with it. We’re handling it as normal, maintaining the standards we set ourselves, and there’s no need to overstate it,” Alonso said.
The barren run has seen Kylian Mbappé go quiet after a sharp start, though Alonso refused to pin the blame on the Frenchman. “Not scoring isn’t just down to Kylian. Just as conceding isn’t solely the defenders’ fault, scoring requires contributions from others. The goals will come, I’ve no doubt,” he added.
Alonso praised the squad’s return from international duty, warning that newly-promoted Elche won’t be pushovers. “Everyone has returned well, full of energy. We’re visiting a promoted side who’ve shown great quality. They play good football, and it will be demanding.” He said preparation has been both tactical and mental, adding: “Tomorrow is the time to show it.”
Injury boosts and squad rotations
The Spaniard also provided updates on key players, including Antonio Rüdiger, who trained fully after two months out with a muscle issue. “It’s very good news he’s close. Maybe not for tomorrow, but we’ll assess him for Athens. Toni, with his competitive level, is important to have.”
Trent Alexander Arnold’s role continues to evolve, with Alonso suggesting he offers tactical flexibility. “Fede can continue there, but having Trent gives more options. Militao or Asensio can also play there.”
The coach also reserved praise for Thibaut Courtois, calling him “a pillar of the team” with leadership and responsibility, particularly in decisive moments.
Mindset over panic as fixtures pile up
Real Madrid now face four straight away games Elche, Girona, Athletic Bilbao in La Liga, and Olympiacos in Europe, a stretch Alonso says demands mental toughness. “Playing away means hostile environments, but preparation and focus remain the same,” he noted.
He insisted the recent dip has nothing to do with fitness. “I don’t connect our form with the physical side. A season has highs and lows. We prepare to compete all year and now we enter a demanding period. We must manage workloads and get everyone ready.”
On rising youngsters like Endrick, Alonso said opportunities will come: “With many matches in a row, everyone will play and have their moment.”
As Madrid push through a heavy fixture list, Alonso says staying level-headed is crucial. “We mustn’t be swept away by every result, not too optimistic or pessimistic, maintaining perspective with both hands,” he concluded.
