Xabi Alonso Excited for Champions League Opener Against Olympique Marseille

Real Madrid’s head coach, Xabi Alonso, expresses his enthusiasm as the team prepares to face Olympique Marseille in their first match of the Champions League.

Madrid Set to Challenge Marseille

Real Madrid enters this match after a hard-fought victory over Real Sociedad on Saturday. Despite the tough outing, Alonso is optimistic about his players’ readiness for the upcoming contest.

-What is your mindset heading into this match?

Alonso stated, “We are filled with excitement to kick off our Champions League campaign with Madrid. This tournament holds special significance for this club, and playing at the Bernabéu adds an extra layer of motivation. The team is eager to progress and continues to develop. We recognize Marseille as a formidable opponent and aim for a strong start.”

-Regarding your comments to the referee in San Sebastián, what can you share?

“There was certainly tension in the air during that exchange. I’ve already expressed my thoughts in the press conference, and I believe that’s sufficient. Our focus now shifts to the Champions League.”

-Do you think the situation regarding payments to Negreira could affect public perception?

“I prefer not to dwell on the officiating issues. Let’s concentrate on the challenges ahead. The incident at Anoeta has been discussed enough.”

Alonso’s Perspective on Referee Styles

When asked about Ancelotti’s comments on European versus Spanish refereeing, Alonso replied, “I feel equally comfortable with both styles. I have no apprehensions about the upcoming match or the follow-up league game.”

-What are your views on the dossier to be submitted to FIFA?

“I believe it’s important to defend our interests, and if the club pursues that route, I fully support it.”

-What was your reaction to undergoing anti-doping tests today?

“We don’t have any control over that. Training was delayed as a result, but that’s how it goes. We cannot dictate those circumstances.”

-How is Vinicius adjusting to his role? What discussions have you had with him?

“We’ve had conversations, as I do with many players. After a strong performance, Vinicius was substituted in the 70th minute, which may not have been ideal for our offensive gameplay. He made sacrifices for the team, and his energy is excellent as we head into tomorrow.”

-Dani Carvajal has now claimed six Champions League titles with you. How has he evolved since you both first met?

“His competitive spirit has remained unchanged since he joined in 2013-14. Yet, his growth in terms of influence, maturity, and leadership has been notable. As he now returns from injury, he positively impacts the squad. Players with strong leadership are essential for driving the team forward, and Carvajal embodies that.”

-What did you anticipate from Kylian Mbappé?

“Kylian had a memorable World Cup experience but faced challenges due to health issues. He seeks to deeply understand the game and brings exceptional individual talent. However, it’s vital for our entire squad to work collectively to elevate our performance, not just rely on individual brilliance.”

-Do you see him as a leader within the team?

“Absolutely. His personality and experience position him as one of our key leaders. Within a unified group, he knows who to guide and support.”

-Is Mbappé eager to clinch his first Champions League title?

“He’s not anxious about it. We view this as an evolving project, and one of our aspirations is to win the Champions League sooner rather than later. Kylian is integral to this vision, but I sense no rush from him. Today, we discussed the significance of the Champions League, focusing on the present rather than the future.”

Reflecting on His Departure from Madrid

Having left in 2014 and extending his career for another three years, Alonso reminisced about the foundational years that led to the club’s golden era. “No, I don’t think I departed too soon. Those five years were intense, marked by a desire to win the Champions League after facing tough defeats in semi-finals. Many of us learned that to achieve victory, one must sometimes experience significant losses.”

-Does being the most successful club in Europe bring pressure or motivation?

“It serves as a fact, an honor, a source of motivation, and a responsibility one cherishes.”