Xabi Alonso: “Mbappé and Gonzalo could play together”

Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso spoke to the media in New York ahead of the team’s FIFA Club World Cup quarter-final against Borussia Dortmund and addressed a number of topics, including who could start in attack with Kylian Mbappé being back fit to rival surprise package Gonzalo García. He said, “they could play together, it depends on the moment and the needs, they complement each other. If the context calls for it, I haven’t ruled it out at all”.

Xabi Alonso on Diogo Jota

“Before answering your question, I would like to send my deepest condolences to the families of Diogo and Andre Silva. This is very sad news for everyone, and we started the day with a feeling that makes you reflect. Now, with regard to the match, we are fine. We want to keep moving forward, and the next step is Dortmund, who are one of Europe’s top teams. It’s going to be an intense match, and we need to perform at a high level.”

Xabi Alonso on whether Kylian Mbappé could start

“He’s feeling better and has been able to train well for the last three days. We’ll decide tomorrow morning.”

Xabi Alonso on whether he would “bet his coaching licence” like Ancelotti

“When Ancelotti said that, he had already achieved so much in his career that he could afford to! I’m just starting out, I can’t take such a risk. But I can say that Fede Valverde is going to score a lot of goals.”

Xabi Alonso on playing with a back three

“Time is becoming more limited. I think Tchouaméni can be hybrid, in one phase in one way and in another phase in another way, that richness gives us more alternatives.”

Xabi Alonso on Aurélien Tchouameni’s role

“I had seen him a lot, but in the end you have to get to know him. He has the ability to adapt, he’s very intelligent when it comes to grasping concepts. His position is very important to me, to be strong in the middle.”

Xabi Alonso on forward options

“I’m counting on all three. Endrick is recovering, but of course we’re counting on him. We’re not planning the squad, we’re looking for immediate results. We’ll make decisions afterwards.”

Xabi Alonso on whether football needs time-outs

“I don’t know if I would be for or against the presence of elements that disrupt the game... it would have to be considered. I’m not saying no, but under normal conditions I don’t know if it’s the best thing.”

Xabi Alonso on players returning from injury

“The squad list will be the same. Camavinga is better, but it’s too early for tomorrow. Militao and Carvajal are back in training.”

Xabi Alonso on pre-season

“After the Club World Cup, we’ll all need rest and get back to training in Valdebebas. We won’t be doing any training camps abroad. It will be on a reduced schedule, and decisions have already been made with the players.”

Xabi Alonso on Rodrygo Goes

“I spoke to Rodrygo yesterday, and he’s in a positive frame of mind, eager, and ready for whenever he’s needed.”

Xabi Alonso on Fede Valverde’s fitness

“Fede had a minor discomfort but has recovered well for tomorrow.”

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