Xabi Alonso: “The team came out focused to win, with intensity and good tempo”
“It was probably the most well-rounded match we've played. At a demanding stadium and at an important moment,” added the Madrid coach.
Xabi Alonso spoke to the media in the press room at San Mamés and discussed the victory over Athletic Club on matchday 19 of LaLiga: "It was an important match. We wanted to break the pattern a bit, but we came in calm and well prepared, and I think the team performed very well overall. We were very focused for the full ninety minutes, conceding very little."
“In the first half, we played very well and created chances. It was probably the most well-rounded match we've played. At a demanding stadium and at an important moment. We're taking things slowly, now we have to keep going.”
Another brace for Mbappé
“He's in great form. He scored two more great goals today. His movement and link-up play with Vini Jr. was very good. The team came out focused from the first minute to win the game with intensity and good tempo. We dominated the match in the first half and in the second half, though we didn't have as much possession, we remained in control. It was an important moment after three away draws to get back to winning ways. On Sunday, we return home.”
Courtois’ saves
“It's no surprise that he makes decisive saves. At that moment, he helped us maintain our lead so we could continue to build on our momentum in the match.”
Can Güler play with Bellingham?
“It's totally compatible. Arda had played three consecutive matches and Camavinga didn't start the other day. There are a lot of matches and we're playing every three days. It was just a technical decision for today's match.”
Conversations in Athens
“Today is today, and that's what matters most. The team's performance and collective quality. The team was very stable, and that's what I'll take away from this. We take it one match at a time. After the draw in Girona, we knew it was an important moment. Now that we've come through it, starting tomorrow, we'll be thinking about Celta. The calendar is very demanding and doesn't allow you to dwell too much on either the good or the not-so-good moments.”