“We lacked” – Xabi Alonso demands more of Real Madrid despite 100% start to 2025-26 season | OneFootball

Real Madrid continued their 100% start to the new season with a 2-0 victory over Espanyol on Saturday afternoon, which sent them five points clear at the top of La Liga – for at least a few hours.

It was not a straightforward win for Los Blancos, and this was eluded to by head coach Xabi Alonso when he spoke to Real Madrid TV after the match at the Santiago Bernabeu, as per Diario AS.

“It was a solvent victory. The team played seriously, stable and calmly. Maybe we lacked a bit of brilliance in the final third, generate a little more… But the team was serious, without having any problems. It is an important victory to continue growing and now, let’s think about Tuesday.

“Against low blocks you have to shoot from the outside. When space is tight, you need to progress quickly. Militao’s goal was very good and Kylian’s, a transition that Vini has brought very well and in which he has known how to make the right decision. We are progressing.”

Image via Denis Doyle/Getty Images

Alonso speaks on tactical switch against Espanyol

Alonso shocked many by going for a 4-4-2/4-2-4 system against Espanyol, with Gonzalo Garcia brought in for his first start of the season. He explained his decision to change his system for the match during his interview with RMTV.

“Being able to generate chances, have a presence in the box, combine different movements: from width to mobility. Aurélien and Fede played a very serious game, giving control to the game.”

Alonso was also delighted to give first appearances of the season to the returning pair of Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga.

“It’s great news for everyone. The first for them and then for the team. We need them. They are top players and for the next calendar, we need everyone. Now, we will have more options.”