Xabi Alonso gives a clear message to the Real Madrid stars.
Xabi Alonso has sent a clear message to Real Madrid’s players ahead of his first game as manager – even Kylian Mbappé has to run and fight for every ball.
Read: Barcelona press the buy button that makes one of the fiercest La Liga rivals hiss
According to Cadena SER, the new Real Madrid boss has set tough demands on the team ahead of the meeting with Al-Hilal in the Club World Cup: No effort, no playing time. Even Mbappé is expected to work defensively and put pressure on his opponents. Alonso is determined to fix Madrid’s alternating pressing game from last season and is now introducing strict discipline.
After a season of defensive weak points – despite trophies under Carlo Ancelotti – Alonso demands intensity, organisation and a winning mentality from day one. According to SER, new signings Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen will start, along with stars such as Vinícius Jr. and Mbappé. But stardom does not guarantee against the bench if the effort fails.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">”Save a run, you’ll get yellow”
The former Leverkusen coach is said to have told the players:
“Anyone who saves a run gets a yellow card. Do it again, and it will turn red.”
Even goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is expected to “run after every single ball”. Alonso demands maximum effort from all 11 on the pitch – regardless of name or position.
Read on English Clubs: Tottenham’s first signing on Thomas Frank’s watch oozes “guaranteed success”
First test against Al-Hilal in the Money Tournament Club World Cup
Real Madrid will face Al-Hilal (Saudi Pro League) on June 18 in the Club World Cup. The match will be the first real test of Alonso’s highly intensive system – and whether the star scouts can adapt to a new, demanding style of play.
