Does Real Madrid Need Winter Signings Alonso’s Response Keeps Fans Guessing
Real Madrid’s head coach, Xabi Alonso, is optimistic about his team’s chances of recapturing their winning form. They face Athletic Bilbao tomorrow, Wednesday, at San Mamés stadium, in a match that is a part of Matchday 19 of La Liga.
Real Madrid’s Recent Struggles
Madrid has struggled recently, drawing their last three league matches. This has allowed their long-standing rivals, Barcelona, to eclipse them at the top of the standings. Alonso acknowledged the challenge of playing away, stating, “San Mamés has a fantastic atmosphere. It requires high energy and enthusiasm to succeed.”
Impact of Toni Kroos’ Absence
Alonso noted the absence of experienced midfielder Toni Kroos, who retired in 2024, as a significant loss. “Toni had immense experience and a deep understanding of the club,” he expressed. He emphasized the importance of addressing current challenges while maintaining confidence in the team’s abilities.
Concerns About Winter Signings
When asked about potential winter signings, Alonso was noncommittal. “That’s not something I’m focused on right now,” he said. “We have many matches ahead, and our primary focus is on winning our next game.” The coach highlighted the difficulty his squad has experienced in securing away victories. He remains committed to improving performance as the season progresses.
Injury Updates and Player Performance
Alonso also provided updates on player injuries, particularly Jude Bellingham, who is recovering from his injury. “I monitor his progress daily, and he is doing well. The expectations are high,” he mentioned. He expressed the need to support Bellingham to help him regain his peak form.
Team Dynamics and Player Contributions
On the subject of Gonzalo García’s limited playing time, Alonso defended his talents. “He performed exceptionally well at the Club World Cup, but the playing time has been limited with other players returning,” he explained. The coach reiterated the importance of team cohesion and consistent performance, saying, “Stability comes from a good feeling within the team.”
Addressing Recent Criticism and Expectations
Amid suggestions of doubts surrounding his capabilities as a coach, Alonso emphasized the team’s commitment to improvement and adaptation. “We are aware of our current situation and work diligently to enhance our performance,” he stated. Conversations with club president Florentino Pérez have reportedly been positive, focusing on future goals. Alonso remains confident, asserting that the team is still in contention and capable of battling for titles.
Acknowledging Mental Health in Sports
Alonso responded thoughtfully to the recent news regarding Ronald Araújo’s request for a break due to mental health issues. He stressed the importance of respecting players’ needs, saying, “Players are not machines, and their well-being is essential.”
As Real Madrid prepares for its match against Athletic Bilbao, Xabi Alonso’s responses reflect the team’s focus and determination to navigate through a challenging phase and reclaim their position at the top of La Liga.
