Alonso talks Vinicius, Mbappe, Guler, Tchouameni, Alexander-Arnold ahead of Real Madrid vs Pachuca | OneFootball

Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso addressed the media before their next Club World Cup match against Pachuca. After a tough game against Al Hilal, Alonso wants his team to bounce back.

“We’re expecting a tough and energetic match,” he said. “The aim is to play well and win. We want to end this part of the tournament on a better note than last time.”

When asked about Vinicius Jr., who did not look his usual self recently, Alonso stood by his player. “He’s fine,” Alonso said.

“There’s no need to bring him back to anything. He has that unique, unpredictable style. When he’s playing freely, he’s one of the best.”

On Mbappe, Garcia and Guler

Alonso provided update on Kylian Mbappe. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Alonso also gave a positive update on Kylian Mbappe, saying the forward is back from the hospital and recovering well. “We are hopeful he will be ready for the Salzburg game,” the coach added.

There was also praise for young striker Gonzalo Garcia. “He showed what he’s capable of in the last game,” Alonso said.

“He had three chances and scored a goal. Right now, we’re focused on the tournament. We’ll talk about the future later.”

Arda Guler’s position was also discussed. “He’s a player who needs to be near the ball. The more he touches it, the better he gets,” said Alonso.

Meanwhile, defender Antonio Rudiger is fit again and has been discharged, though Alonso stressed they will take things step by step. “Antonio, yes, he’s been discharged. We have to go gradually. The rest of the report hasn’t changed much.”

On the topic of penalties, Alonso smiled and said, “We’ll decide before each game. It depends on who’s on the pitch. You can guess if you want.”

Midfield options and tactical flexibility

Xabi Alonso praised Tchouameni. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

There has been talk about whether Real Madrid need a new creative midfielder. Alonso doesn’t think so.

“We’re focused on the World Cup now, not transfers. I believe in our midfield. With different styles, we can dominate,” he explained.

Alonso also praised Aurelien Tchouameni for adapting to different roles. “He’s a key player who helps the team in many ways,” he said.

About Trent Alexander-Arnold, he commented, “He’s not just someone who plays wide. At Liverpool and with England, he often moved inside. He can do that here too,” he concluded.

Source: AS