Real Madrid: Xabi Alonso praises Vinicius ahead of the derby | OneFootball

Xabi Alonso - Vinicius

In a press conference this Friday ahead of tomorrow's Madrid derby against Atlético, Xabi Alonso was full of praise for Vinicius Jr.

After their emphatic 4-1 victory away at Levante, Real Madrid now face a crucial clash in La Liga. Los Blancos are set to take on Diego Simeone's Atlético Madrid tomorrow—a major showdown for Xabi Alonso as he experiences these high-profile Spanish fixtures for the first time as Real Madrid manager.

On the eve of the encounter, the Madrid coach addressed the magnitude of the fixture with a clear and reassuring message directed at Vinicius. "It's different to go to the Metropolitano with Real Madrid. Because of the rivalry. It's special and I hope we can enjoy it tomorrow as well. The league table doesn't mean much, but the match will be tough. We'll have to work hard. Vini is fundamental for us. I liked what he did the other day, and I love seeing him smile." he told the press.