Alaba, Militao react after WGS Tirol 0-4 Real Madrid – ‘We are in good shape’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid put four goals past WSG Tirol in a pre-season friendly last night in Austria in what was the team’s final preparatory game ahead of the new season.

The game was a special one for several players with some making their debut for the club and others returning from long-term injuries to claim their place in the new manager’s plans.

In the second category were the likes of Eder Militao and David Alaba, both of whom struggled with fitness last season but returned last night.

Alaba speaks after his return

Facing the media after his long-awaited return from injury last night, Alaba spoke briefly on his fitness, form and position under the new manager. He began, however, by expressing joy over the 4-0 win over Tirol.

“I’m really happy, of course. This is my country, and I think the atmosphere was fantastic. I’m delighted. I’m much better, pretty much 100%. I’m feeling strong, and 100% ready to play.”

Speaking on playing as a midfielder under Alonso and whether it was a surprise to him, the Austrian veteran said,

“It’s different, of course. It’s not my natural position, but I know it from having played there a bit in the past.”

Finally, he looked forward to the new season and all the challenges that are set to arrive with it.

“We’re in good shape, we’ve got a week before the first game, and we’re there or thereabouts.”

Militao speaks on his goal

It was Militao, another long-term injury returnee, who scored the opener for Real Madrid last night and he spoke to the media about his contribution after the game.

“It was a lovely goal, I didn’t think it was going in, but in the end it was all good. The group looks strong.”

“What the coach is asking of the team is starting to come off. We’ll get better and better as the season goes on,” he added on Xabi Alonso.

The Brazilian defender then opened up on his difficult injury and how it felt returning to the field after close to a year.

“I’m helping the team out by doing what I enjoy. It took a while, but now the time has come. It’s great to be back and available to the manager.”

“I’ll always give it my best whenever I get the chance to play,” he added.

Finally, the defender commented on why fans can be optimistic ahead of the new season and how the team are prepared to give it their all.

“The team will be ready, it’s been a really good pre-season, hard work. We’re all feeling confident. We know it’ll be a long season, but we’re ready to go.”

Source: Real Madrid website