Xabi Alonso: "We're eager to get started, to get back to the Bernabéu and connect with the fans"

Xabi Alonso appeared in the press room at Real Madrid City on the eve of our team's opening LaLiga clash with Osasuna at the Bernabéu (Tuesday, 9:00 pm CEST): “We're all heading into it with excitement, and expectations high. We're hungry to start the season now after the break. They have been two short but intense weeks, and we can't wait to get back to the Bernabéu. For some, it's not too long since the last time, for others it's been a bit longer, and for a few, it'll be the first time, so that all contributes to the team's hunger, and I'm sure the fans feel the same about seeing the team back at the ground. We want to start strongly against Osasuna. The first game is always important for all kinds of reasons, and tomorrow is the day."

Mastantuono
“The first time I spoke to Mastantuono, I was struck by his personality. He was 17 then, and he was very sure of himself. He didn't seem at all concerned about making the jump to Real Madrid. That maturity and quality has been evident since he arrived, I know he'll settle in quickly, both on the pitch and in the dressing room."

Has the team reached the levels you expect?
“We're making progress. It's difficult to assess the level, there's no gauge that can measure it, but we're taking steps in the right direction. I'm sure there's still some way to go, but the key things, the fundamentals, were being introduced at the Club World Cup, and now we've gone a bit deeper over the last couple of weeks. From here, we just have to keep going, the feelings around the place are positive."

Are you considering any exits?
“I'm counting on everyone here. I want them all to be at 100%, we need them. We need the right attitude and energy, and I'm counting on everyone."

Competition for places
"I know that competition is fantastic, and I love having two players who can play in every position, guys who want to show why they deserve their place. Then it's down to me to make the choice. Sometimes, I'll have to share out the minutes, but I think there are lots of positions that are very well stocked. We've got two guys at right-back: Carva, who is really back at it now, he's getting back to his best, and Trent, who's come from Liverpool and is fantastic for the quality in the squad. We have loads of games coming up and that's the level we need." 

Kick-off time
"As you say, we can't move it now. Our request was based mainly on the health of the players, to respect their rest period after such a long season and allow us a bit more preparation time. It would have been nice to receive that support. In the end, it wasn't to be. We've got two weeks and there's no use looking for excuses now. The team can compete tomorrow, we'll try and do that and I'm convinced we'll do so, because often, the heart and desire push much more than fresh legs. We can't wait to get started tomorrow, to be back at the stadium and giving people a good time."

LaLiga game in Miami
"I'm in agreement with the club's statement. When the competition starts, we all know the rules, and if they are to be changed, it should be in unanimous agreement among all participants. There's no place for it now, there should have been prior consultation with all the LaLiga clubs."

Is there pressure because of Lamine Yamal?
"I don't know about pressure, but he's developed rapidly in the short time he's been playing. He's been a key player both for Barcelona and the national team, and the time will come to face him."

Consistency across the pitch
"It's a question of having awareness in every line. Of course, it's important that the forwards don't get caught out when the ball turns over. Not just the big names, but anyone who is going to be playing in those positions. But in the same sense, when we attack, the defensive line has to push up. We want to work as a team. Everyone needs to be involved and really understand what's required in every move. That will help us make sure the distances between the lines are better, both in defence and attack. If there are big gaps between one another when we're attacking, it's often more difficult when we turn the ball over because the distances are greater. It's more important than ever to be switched on to that, and we took a step forward in that regard at the Club World Cup. It's something we're well aware of and working on."

Promise to the fans
"I much prefer doing things than saying them - making promises before you've done anything doesn't tend to work in football. We're working hard and people are excited, you can sense that. We're eager as well, we can't wait to start this new project, with new players, a new coach, bringing that energy to the stadium. We have to earn it, and we want to start tomorrow in order to make our way towards where we want to be in May."

The leader of the team
"It has to be a natural thing, it should come from them organically. We've got communicative players whose drive is contagious, and they'll be carving out a role for themselves in no time. That's vital in helping everything feel more connected. When communication is good, helping a teammate helps yourself as well. It's not a case of someone saying you're a leader and you have to do it - it has to come naturally. Leadership isn't imposed, it comes to the fore, and there can be more than one leader given what individuals can transmit to the rest of the group."

Refereeing
"We're starting the season now so we'll see how things go. I hope we don't have to discuss the referees too much, and I don't want to start now."

Rodrygo
"There are always rumours during summer, but he looks good to me, he's part of my plans. I want every one of the players here to be feeling part of the team, doing their bit, and performing at 100%. That's all I'm concerned with right now."

Controversy in Mallorca-Barcelona
"I don't think it's up to me to make comments about things that happen in other games. I listened to what Jagoba Arrasate had to say and I think he explained it very well."

Mastantuono's contribution
"He could get game time, yes. He'll bring us quality and energy, he's highly committed. He's got great drive from a defensive perspective - in the little time I've spent with him I can see that Argentine spirit, he's a warrior, but he's got quality too. He's a combative player and he's got a beautiful left foot, both from set-pieces and in the final pass. He's got lovely technique and he's very young. We have to guide him, but he's already playing at a very decent level."

Will Brahim play?
"He looks in good shape, I knew him already. I know what a difference he can make, he has great positional understanding, he can do unusual things, he links fantastically with his teammates. He's amazing in tight spaces, strong off both feet, a brilliant finisher. He hasn't surprised me because I already knew him very well, and if he's in the squad it's because he could play a part tomorrow."

Mastantuono's favourite player
"I think it's logical for Messi to be his favourite player. He's from Argentina and he's left-footed, so it's no surprise to me."

His memories of the fans
"I have wonderful memories. I even came back here for a Champions League game playing for Bayern, and we had a fantastic relationship, I really felt the love from the crowd. I'm in a different role now, but I have high expectations, I'm motivated and can't wait to feel that connection with the people once more. A long time has passed, but I've always felt it. Whatever happens, and whatever they feel, I'm delighted to be back."