Real Madrid News
Alonso talks Asencio, Huijsen, Alexander-Arnold, Mbappe after Real Madrd 1-1 Al-Hilal
Xabi Alonso didn’t hide his feelings after his first match in charge of Real Madrid ended in a 1-1 draw against Al-Hilal at the Club World Cup.
While the team showed improvement in the second half, Alonso admitted that the first 45 minutes were far from ideal. “The result is frustrating because we should have won,” he said.
“We were the better team, especially after the break. The first half wasn’t enjoyable, but it highlighted what we need to work on.”
One major talking point was the penalty given away by Raul Asencio. Alonso initially hesitated to comment but eventually said, “From what I saw, it looked like something that could have been avoided.”
However, he noted that “The penalty on Fran did seem like that to me.”
Asencio’s substitution
Alonso also explained the reason behind Marco Asensio’s early substitution. “He’s been on antibiotics recently and hasn’t felt well,” he revealed.
“It was a hot and tiring match. That’s not an excuse, but the conditions were tough. Even Vinicius started cramping after the 70th minute. Al Hilal were also visibly drained by the end.”
The Real Madrid boss was happy with the performances of the debutants, Dean Huijsen and Trent Alexander. “It was a special day for both. Dean had a very strong game, and Trent kept improving as the match went on. They raised our level.”
On Mbappe’s situation
Alonso also touched on Kylian Mbappe’s situation, saying, “We still don’t know if he’ll be ready for the next match.
“He’s been dealing with a serious viral infection. We’ll monitor his progress closely in the coming days.”
When asked about Franco Mastantuono, Alonso showed confidence in the teenager. “The idea is for him to help us from the start, and we have high expectations for him. Time will tell, but of course, a 17-18-year-old player can be a starter for Madrid.”
Finally, Alonso shared what he told the team at halftime. “We needed to be calmer with the ball. We were rushing in the first half, which made us lose control.
“After the break, we played with more quality and balance, but we still have to improve our finishing,” he concluded.
Source: MARCA
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid star Huijsen credits Mourinho for improved form in new season: ‘He supports me a lot’
Real Madrid will be looking to get back to winning ways in LaLiga as they take on Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.
The club are coming on the back of a 1-0 defeat to Real Betis last weekend but did secure a narrow win over Inter Milan in the midweek Champions League fixture.
Heading into this game, Dean Huijsen, who has been showing a lot of promise in these early parts of the season, spoke to the club’s official media about the match ahead and how Real Madrid have been coping with the pressure early on, among other things.
Huijsen on Rayo and his defensive duties
The young centre-back was fully aware of the threat posed by Rayo and praised the opposition.
“We know that Rayo is a good team, and it’s a tough team to face, and we must give our all as we do in all matches to secure the three points, that’s the only thing that matters, and for the Bernabeu to be with us and for us all to be united,” he said.
He also detailed the defensive demands placed on him by the coaching staff led by Jose Mourinho.
“Well, what every coach asks of you: ferocity, intercepting balls, and winning one-on-one duels. He supports me a lot, and I think this helps me greatly, and defending together as a team,” he said.
On the team’s preparations for the fixture, Huijsen offered an insight into their training routine.
“We’re working on some tactics related to the opponent. And well, after that it depends on the day; we might play a mini-match among ourselves or not,” he added.
Huijsen on Mourinho and his fine form
The Spaniard was quick to credit Mourinho, with whom he previously worked at Roma, for his development and current level.
“We’ve known each other for a while, even though we spent a relatively short time together in Rome. He gave me the opportunity to make the real leap into professional football, and I’ll always be grateful to him for that,” Huijsen said.
Reflecting on his own performances, the defender was in confident mood, once again pointing to the influence of his coach and teammates.
“I think I’m in good shape. Well, I think I’m delivering a good level, and I believe that’s thanks to the coach too, as he keeps track of me and takes great care of me.”
“Well, I’m also doing my very best, and I think the teammates are supporting me too, and this is the perfect equation,” he added.
Finally, Huijsen explained how he manages his recovery amid a congested schedule.
“There are a lot of matches, so we need to recover well and stay focused on football, then you have to sleep well. And yes, on the days after the match, I also take a cold shower and a hot shower to recover better,” he concluded.
