Alonso talks Vinicius, Guler, Endrick, Huijsen, Courtois, Camavinga ahead of Real Madrid vs Juventus | OneFootball

Ahead of Real Madrid’s UEFA Champions League group stage showdown against Juventus at the Santiago Bernabeu, manager Xabi Alonso faced the press and spoke openly about his expectations, his players’ form, and several talking points surrounding the club.

The game will be a special one for the Spanish tactician, who knows what it means to face Juventus from his own playing days.

When asked about his approach to the upcoming clash, Alonso emphasised the significance of the fixture and the need for intensity from his players and the fans.

“It’s a European classic. They’ve faced each other many times and I’ve played in some of those games. We feel very prepared.

“We want our third Champions League win. And to get off to a great start, we need the stadium.”

Recently, Real Madrid have made headlines for their strong opposition to the proposed La Liga match between Barcelona and Villarreal in Miami.

Alonso was once again asked about the matter, and he reiterated that his stance remains unchanged.

“I’ve already responded a couple of times and my opinion is clear. The club is defending its interests. We’ll see what happens with Miami.”

On Vinicius, Guler and Endrick

The Real Madrid boss was also quizzed about Vinicius Jr., who started on the bench against Getafe. Alonso explained his reasoning while praising the Brazilian’s impact and attitude.

“The reason is that Vinicius is very good and fundamental. Decisive. I’m happy to see Vinicius enjoying himself, smiling.

Alonso praised Vinicius Jr. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“We talked about the impact he could have and how he could change the game. We need him to be focused on the game and on what he does well.

“His day-to-day work is good and he responds very well in games.”

Alonso was then asked about comparisons between Arda Guler and Mesut Ozil. The Spaniard drew an interesting parallel between the young midfielder and two legends of creative football.

“Not just because of where they come from. He’s a mix between Ozil and Guti. Guti had that quality to play in the build-up and for the final pass. Mesut too.

“I really enjoyed playing with Ozil. The more we find Arda, the better we get. We have to keep pushing him. We’re very happy with him.”

When asked about Endrick’s future and the possibility of sending the young forward out on loan, Alonso kept things open but highlighted the competition for places in the squad.

“We’re not at that point right now. The competition up front is intense. You have to be ready for every game. Endrick, Gonzalo, and Brahim have to be ready.

“They’re going to come on and you have to be prepared. This is the elite and we need a lot of good players.”

Which version of Juventus will turn up?

Reflecting on Juventus’ recent 0-2 defeat against Como, Alonso acknowledged Cesc Fabregas’ tactical plan but insisted that the Italian side will pose a very different challenge.

“Como played a very well-planned game by Cesc Fabregas. Let’s hope Juventus will be different.

“Nico Paz has taken a very smart step. Looking ahead, now is not the time.”

He also warned against underestimating Juventus, particularly young forward Kenan Yildiz, whom Alonso knows from his Bayern Munich days.

“We’re on alert for Juve tomorrow. Any Italian team that’s struggling can be dangerous. I don’t remember how Milan were doing, but I remember how the game went.

“We mustn’t forget history. Juve is a big club, both now and in the past. They have very good players, and Yildiz is one of them.

“He has developed fantastically. I know him. He was at Bayern when I was there. Seeing his progress makes me very happy.”

Injury update

Dean Huijsen will not be available to face Juventus. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

The Real Madrid boss also confirmed that several players, including Dean Huijsen, would not be fit to feature in the Champions League clash.

“Looking ahead to tomorrow, I don’t think Huijsen, Trent or Carvajal will be available. I’ll give you the final update on Saturday.”

Asked about Kylian Mbappe’s season, Alonso praised the Frenchman’s leadership qualities and his influence beyond just goals.

“It’s not just the goals. His influence is almost as important in terms of his teammates following him with and without the ball. He’s helping us.

“Kylian is in a very good place in his life, personally. He’s very analytical. He does things for reasons and has to understand them well.

“Now everything fits together in his head, and that’s why he’s performing so well.”

Alonso was then asked to compare Thibaut Courtois and Iker Casillas, two legendary goalkeepers in Madrid’s history.

“Tibu is the best in the world. He could be a coach in the future. I had some fantastic experiences with Iker, I can’t choose between them. Now I have Tibu, but Iker is Iker.”

Finally, the Spaniard discussed Eduardo Camavinga’s progress and Franco Mastantuono’s adaptation to the first team, expressing patience and belief in both players’ potential.

“We’ve only just started with Eduardo. He’s only been available for a few weeks. He’s been training for three weeks. He hadn’t played for Madrid for a long time and he did a lot of things well.

“As a midfielder, he has a dynamism and a passing ability that is very different from others. We have to fit his individual quality into the team.”

About the Argentine, he said, “He’s only just arrived and he’s 18 years old. We need to invest in him and help him. We’re delighted to have him with us.”

Source: AS