Xabi Alonso talks Rudiger, Rodrygo, Vinicius, Mbappe, Carvajal after Oviedo 0-3 Real Madrid | OneFootball

Real Madrid sealed their second win of the season and first away win of the league campaign against Real Oviedo last night in a game that was anything but easy in the second half.

An early Kylian Mbappe goal handed Los Blancos the lead, but it was not until the 83rd minute that they managed to double the advantage. Eventually, Vinicius Jr added the cherry on the cake in extra time.

The three points keep Real Madrid on a perfect score after two games and thus on a good start to the new season.

Alonso faces the media

Speaking to the media after the win, the Real Madrid manager spoke about a plethora of topics including the team’s improvement, performance and individual players who shone.

“I analyse the win through the game. We played a very good game. In the first half, we had a very good rhythm with and without the ball and were very active,”he began.

Xabi Alonso explaine the match. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

“At times, it was difficult because Oviedo was closed down, but the rhythm was very good. In the second half, we perhaps fell a little.

“Oviedo took a step forward, and we struggled to maintain their pace,” he added, pointing out a flaw.

Elaborating on when he felt comfortable on the night given Oviedo’s fighting spirit, Alonso said,

“We stole the ball from the defence, we made some runs, and the 2-0 scoreline gave us some peace of mind.”

“I’m left with the impression that it was a complete and very serious away game, with a tremendous attitude from the team both on and off the ball. I really liked it,” he added.

On individual stars

Alonso then praised Vinicius Jr for his performance under pressure and how he had a massive part to play in the dominant scoreline.

Vinicius Jr. was excluded from the starting XI. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

“He came in very well. He was instrumental in scoring both goals. I’m happy for him.

“We need everyone. Those who start, those who come off the bench. There’s going to be plenty of games for everyone.”

Elaborating on his decision to start Vinicius on the bench last night, he defended his decision stating it was for the team’s good.

“Everyone is different. You have to demand the same respect, but the relationship you have is different.

“In football, you have to understand things; decisions are made with the team in mind. Today was like that.”

When asked if Dani Carvajal, who has just returned from a long injury, is pushing for a return to the Spanish National Team call-up, he said,

“He would like to return, but it’s the manager’s decision. I’m very happy that he’s feeling good again after his long injury. He was eager at the Club World Cup, but he needed more time.”

“He still needs time, but today he played 85 minutes very much in the Carvajal style. Competing well, transmitting his talent and showing that leadership.

“Giving a lot of meaning to everything. I hope he goes, and if not, he will soon,” he added.

The manager also praised Kylian Mbappe for not only his performance but rapid improvement in a physical sense.

Kylian Mbappe scored a brace against Oviedo. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

“He’s regained the 4 kilos he lost at the World Cup. I can’t tell you much about last season because he was out. I see him in good shape, eager and contributing to the team.”

“I love it when I see him make those runs. We know he’s going to score goals, but when we manage to create those gaps, we find ourselves, both when we have the ball and when we lose it,” he added.

Providing a conclusive note on Mbappe’s importance in his team, the manager said,

“He did very well today and the other day too. We continue to grow and see what we need to correct. We haven’t been here long, but I think the feeling is good.”

Alonso handed Rodrygo a rare start last night and was then asked what he made of the Brazilian’s performance, especially amidst departure rumours.

“He played well. In the first half, he linked up well with Carreras on that wing. Mbappé sometimes dropped, and so did Güler. He had one-on-one chances and a few shots.”

“Oviedo were quite deep and it was difficult to find that space, but I liked him. After last week, we needed everyone, and Rodrygo is just another player,” he added.

He even praised the team’s starting debutant Franco Mastantuono who played on the right side of attack, especially for his connection with teammates on the field.

“He played a very good game. In a short time, he’s managed to connect with the group and his teammates. He seems very integrated into the day-to-day routine and the game.”

“He’s going to give us a lot, in the short, medium, and long term. He’s very young. I’m happy he’s with us. He has great energy and a great left foot. He’s going to keep improving,” he added.

Finally, he spoke on Antonio Rudiger who returned after serving his suspension in the previous game.

“I have to try to get the best collective performance from the players I have. Rüdiger is very reliable, stable, and competitive. It’s good that we have players ready to play.”

“Depending on what we need, we can choose one or another. Militão played 90 minutes the other day after a long injury, and we have to keep looking after him. Antonio is very reliable,” he concluded.

Explaining the changes

Xabi Alonso explained the changes. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Elaborating on the massive changes he made to the starting lineup last night, the Real Madrid coach insisted that a lot of it had to do with the opposition and their style.

“It depends on what we need in terms of play, workloads, or opponent. I haven’t decided for the next month.

“I’m going to see how we recover and see that people feel important and ready to start, come off the bench, or be in the next one.”

“That’s important for maintaining stability in the team’s performance. Today was a game to see if we continue to grow.

“We want to continue like this; now we’ll prepare for the Mallorca game before the break,” he added.

Addressing the massive squad he has at his disposal and the gold mine of talent he can exploit, he added,

“We have twenty-something players in the squad, and I’m going to try to get the best out of all of them.”

“Sometimes you can have a few minutes and be important, and Vini was one today. My intention is for everyone to contribute. That’s going to be the key,” he added.

Finally, Alonso rounded up his press conference by giving a small message of support to his former teammate Santi Cazorla and the reunion he shared with him last night.

“I was a little emotional because I knew the moment he’s experiencing here, after the brilliant career he’s had. The atmosphere at the Tartiere was spectacular.”

“I hadn’t seen Santi for a while, and it was a real thrill to give him a hug. He’s a unique player,” he added.

Source: Real Madrid website