Real Madrid midfielder on Xabi Alonso’s early impressions – ‘Very approachable and intense’ | OneFootball

Following Real Madrid’s fourth training session in preparation for the FIFA Club World Cup earlier today, midfielder Federico Valverde spoke to RealMadrid TV.

The Uruguayan international touched upon the early impressions made by new manager Xabi Alonso and gave an insight into how the training sessions are while also expressing the squad’s motivation and excitement ahead of the tournament

Valverde on Alonso

Talking about Alonso, who replaced Carlo Ancelotti as the Real Madrid manager a few weeks ago, Valverde stated that the Spaniard came off as intense but was approachable to players.

“He is very approachable and intense. It helps a player a lot to be around us. We’re still growing and learning and he’s going to help each of the players on a footballing and personal level,” said the Real Madrid No. 8.

“We are all going to pull in the same direction to win most of the titles this year.”

Real Madrid’s new manager. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Talking about the training sessions under Alonso, with new signings Dean Huijsen and Trent Alexander-Arnold also participating today, Valverde said:

“I’m very well and happy to be able to compete for another title with this club. I’m looking forward to it and I’m very excited about my new teammates.

“They have a lot of desire, energy and passion for defending this badge and that makes everyone very excited.”

On the FIFA Club World Cup

Discussing the FIFA Club World Cup, which gets underway this week in the USA, Valverde stated that Real Madrid are excited to be invovled in the competition and want to go all the way.

“We are looking forward to the Club World Cup with a lot of enthusiasm and excitement. It’s the first one and hopefully we can win it,” said Valverde.

“We’re going with a lot of faith and optimism to do what we’re doing these days with the new coach, the new coaching staff and the new players. It would be great to close or start the season with a big title with Real Madrid.”

Continuing, Valverde underlined Real Madrid’s motivation to win the tournament in the USA, saying:

“Real Madrid always deserve to be at the top. The first Club World Cup deserves to be here with us, with this crest and celebrating with our fans. We’re going to give 100 per cent so that this title comes home.”