Xabi Alonso: "It was a tough, demanding match"
"The team fronted up and knew their jobs" added our coach.
Xabi Alonso appeared in the Coliseum press room and analysed Real Madrid's victory over Getafe on LaLiga matchday nine: "It was a tough, demanding match. You have to know how to compete and be prepared for a match that wasn't going to be the most attractive. The team fronted up and knew their jobs. We were focused and did what we had to do. We're going into next week with good energy”.
“Vini Jr. had a big impact. We talked this morning about how he could be important from the start or later on. He caused problems for the opposition and drew cards from them. It's important for everyone to know that they can be important whatever their role, and today Vini Jr. was important.”
Praise for Mbappé
“We're very pleased with how Kylian is doing. He's been decisive with his goals and his involvement. Goals give you points, but we need everyone because there's a lot going on in the background."
Arda Güler
“Arda also had a good impact. We found him between the lines and he found Kylian well there. The goal was crucial because there were saves, and it was difficult. Arda and Bellingham can play in both positions. We have different profiles. We can alternate and when Arda turns and makes a pass in the second line, he is decisive”.
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How are Courtois and Alaba?
“I think Courtois is fine and Alaba's calf was tightening up and we didn't want to take any risks. We'll assess him further tomorrow.”
Camavinga's performance
“I really liked him and in the first half, we created the mismatch on the left wing. We needed more in the final third. On this pitch, you have to adjust well to the second ball, and they only created danger from set pieces. He gave a very complete performance.”
Courtois' final save
“These are situations that shouldn't happen with nine men. We didn't close down well and we didn't adjust our marking. Courtois was crucial at the end. He did his job and we're leaving with three points, which is what we wanted. It's over now, I've got three points and tomorrow I'll start thinking about the next game”.
A demanding week
“I'm still thinking about today's intense match. We had to roll up our sleeves. It wasn't the most beautiful game to play or watch, but from tomorrow we'll start thinking about Juve”