Everyone Defends: Xabi’s Message to Mbappe, Vinicius

New Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso has emphasized the importance of teamwork and defensive work rate, warning his stars, including Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe, that everyone must contribute defensively.

Last season under Carlo Ancelotti, Los Blancos failed to secure a major trophy, partly due to the forward line’s reluctance to work hard enough for the team.

“We need and want everyone to defend the 11 players on the pitch have to be involved defensively,” Alonso told a news conference ahead of Madrid’s Club World Cup match against RB Salzburg. “They have to get close together, they have to know how we want to press, and without that, things will be very complicated.”

Alonso’s approach differs from Ancelotti’s, who last season prioritized Mbappe’s goal-scoring over defensive responsibilities. The French striker netted 43 goals in his debut season at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Real Madrid will face Salzburg in Philadelphia on Thursday, seeking to top their group. However, Mbappe won’t be part of the squad due to a stomach bug. Although he returned to training on Wednesday, Alonso deemed him not ready for the match.

“I was happy to see him on the pitch, it was the first day he’s got his boots back on and has been running, he’s doing well, but not enough to play tomorrow with the level that we need,” Alonso explained. “He said it himself when we spoke after training, he prefers to be ready for the last 16, he’s in the recovery process, he wasn’t perfect for tomorrow.”

Meanwhile, Rodrygo’s benching in Madrid’s 3-1 win over Pachuca sparked speculation about a potential departure. Alonso clarified that the Brazilian forward is still a valuable player.

“He’s doing well, he’s enthusiastic, it was a technical decision the other day, but Rodrygo is still an important player, we will need him in this Club World Cup. He’s a special player and will have a big role at this tournament.”

With Mbappe out, Alonso will look to his other stars to shine against Salzburg. The match will be a crucial test for Real Madrid as they aim to progress from Group H.

VANGUARD