Alonso talks Vinicius, Ceballos, Valverde, Camavinga, Huijsen, Rodrygo ahead of Real Madrid vs Mallorca | OneFootball

Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso faced the media ahead of his team’s upcoming La Liga home fixture against Mallorca on Saturday.

The manager addressed several key topics, from Vinicius Jr.’s form and contract situation to the squad’s balance and the impact of the Champions League draw.

When asked about the Brazilian forward, Alonso made it clear he wants the focus to remain on football, while also underlining the importance of tackling racism.

“We hope that wherever we go there will be a competitive atmosphere, but not unpleasant incidents. If there are racist incidents, the relevant authorities will intervene. And we’ll be back on the pitch.”

On Vinicius’ contract and role, Alonso added, “I’m very happy with Vini. Against Oviedo, he showed he can have a big impact off the bench. We’re just getting started… and he’s going to be crucial.”

The coach also discussed how having such a key player on the bench affects the dressing room.

“In a locker room, the key is that everyone is willing to contribute, whether on the pitch or off.

“Truly believing in this is essential. And everyone here does. Vinicius is important in this, Valverde, Courtois… they’re all very important.”

UCL draw and Ceballos’ future

Ceballos’ move to Marseille has collapsed. (Photo by Francois Nel/Getty Images)

When asked about the group stage draw, Alonso admitted it will be a challenge.

“The group is demanding, but also motivating. The trip to Almaty is something special, let’s see how we handle it.”

He also confirmed that Dani Ceballos will remain with the team despite his collapsed move to Marseille.

“I spoke to him and it has been resolved that he is staying. My opinion hasn’t changed. He’s staying, he’s one of the squad.

“And I’m happy with him. the decision seems final. He still has the same role as before, it doesn’t change my view of him.”

Calling out individuals

On Federico Valverde, Alonso had nothing but praise for the Uruguayan. “He is being instrumental, leading the way.

“His first taste of the game, at the World Cup, was good, and it continues to be so. He can adapt to any style of play, and that’s a blessing.”

He also expressed excitement about Eduardo Camavinga’s fitness. The Frenchman is yet to make an appearance under Alonso and everything points to the fact that he will be available after the September international break.

“I’m eager to have him, because I’ve had him around, but not continuously. That’s what I want. He’ll contribute a lot, because he has many qualities as a modern footballer.

“He fits in with what we want to do and will have his place. In addition to being someone very well-liked by his teammates, he creates a lot of cohesion among the different players. That’s also important.”

Roles for Huijsen, Rodrygo and Pitarch

Speaking about Dean Huijsen’s impact, Alonso said, “Everyone has to do everything.

Alonso praised Dean Huijsen. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

“Dean brings very important things, such as pausing from the back line and knowing how to find the pass.

“He is a great signing, a strategic one. But we have to complement the pieces. The more we link the pieces together, the more stable we’ll be in our performance.”

On Rodrygo’s position, Alonso noted his versatility but hinted at his preference. “He has performed at his best in different positions. He has played as a nine and even a ten.

“But I think the left wing is a very good position for him. After a few games playing less… it was important for him to get back into the team dynamic.”

When asked if Rodrygo will start on the left against Mallorca, he joked, “It wouldn’t be very smart of me to tell you what I’m going to do (laughs). We’ll see tomorrow.”

On the summer transfer plans, Alonso explained, “It’s likely [that the squad is closed], but I don’t want to get my fingers burnt. We’ll keep an eye on things and wait and see. But it looks like it…”

Finally, he praised Thiago Pitarch, a promising talent from Castilla. “I didn’t know him very well, but I liked him from day one.

“He’s very dynamic and energetic; he knows how to play between the lines… and against Leganes, he scored from the second line.

“He’s helping us now that Jude and Camavinga are out. It’s great to know that there are players in Castilla who can strengthen our team. He will be called up again,” he concluded.

Source: AS