Xabi Alonso: “We're ready for what will be a demanding and intense match”
“We want to maintain the tempo we've had in the league and finish well before the break,” said the Madrid coach.
Xabi Alonso spoke to the media in the press room at Real Madrid City and discussed the game ahead against Rayo Vallecano, on matchday 12 of LaLiga, which will be played at the Estadio de Vallecas (4.15 pm CET): "It's a tough trip because Rayo are in good form and because our last few visits there have been demanding. Last year we drew and a lot happened. We're prepared for an intense, fast-paced match that will demand a lot from us. Every match is the most important one and we're going there with that mentality”.
“The Liverpool match has already been looked at and talked about. Now it's Vallecas that's on our minds. We've been preparing and thinking about this match since Thursday. We want to continue in the League at the rhythm we're showing and finish well before the break. We want to be consistent in our performance, but not all matches are the same, nor do you feel the same way. I have no complaints about the attitude leading up to the match.”
Trent
"He's ready, he's been training for a couple of weeks and tomorrow you'll know if he's starting or not."
Is the team running less?
“You have to put it into context. There have been all kinds of matches and you have to look at the data to see how the match went. You can't make definitive assessments based on a single match.”
Valverde
“Due to the circumstances, he played at full-back and did very well. We know how flexible, capable and willing Fede is, he’s always ready to help the team and he’s an option we have in the short and medium term.”
“We know where we are in LaLiga, in the Champions League and what’s coming up. But what's to come is for later. What we want now is to finish with a win and a good feeling at a tough stadium.”
Rodrygo, on the right
“Yes, it's a possibility. Rodrygo can play on both wings. In fact, he's done it a lot; he can even play in the centre. It's a possibility we have."
Rayo
“They're a very good team. They have a great coach and have been doing very well since last year. They've been given continuity and are competing in Europe this year. They're very good at their style of play and make things difficult for any team that visits Vallecas. Tomorrow will be a game in which we need to show a lot of maturity, connection and intensity, and know that there won't be any easy moments.”
Íñigo Pérez's development
“He was Andoni's assistant and then Andoni went to Bournemouth and he's doing really well. Íñigo has taken over with a lot of personality and authority. The team is doing great and has a clear vision. That's why they're doing so well. I like his personality and the way he communicates with the players.”
His dressing room
“It's a dressing room with great players and a lot of personality. We're starting a new project and we're really excited about it. I'm very happy with them and we're making progress. That's what gives me energy.”