Real Madrid gave a terrible performance against PSG. The Whites were knocked out of the Club World Cup with a resounding 4-0 defeat in which several players were exposed and many conclusions were drawn, such as that perhaps the problem was not on the bench, although it was, but in the squad. Xabi Alonso has a lot of work ahead of him to improve this team and many decisions to make about departures, signings, and also about who deserves a place in the starting eleven, regardless of the name on the shirt.
Dilemma with Vinicius and Mbappé
“We are lucky to have players of that caliber. Not just Kylian or Vinicius. They are special and we have to get everything out of them. If they give their best, the team will be much more successful. I have ideas, there is still time to work on it, but I will use it to work on it. Communication and connection are important to know what we want. They are top-level players and that’s my job,” said Xabi Alonso on the day of his presentation.
With the Frenchman’s health problems, he has had little time to work with the two players, but the truth is that against PSG, the first game with both in the starting lineup, it was clear once again that they don’t work well together, that they get in each other’s way, and even more so when Gonzalo was added to the equation. The Brazilian is showing a lack of commitment, apathy, and anarchy regarding the coach’s instructions, which seem to have rubbed off on Kylian Mbappé.
Rodrygo and the best option
“Rodrygo is a Real Madrid player and I’m going to have a conversation with him, as I do with everyone, because he deserves it and we need it. Rodrygo is a spectacular player, which I’m not going to discover, and we’re going to need him.” The coach also said this at his presentation and the truth is that he has been keeping an eye on the Brazilian and has given him opportunities that he has not taken advantage of.
He started the World Cup as a starter, but his poor performance has relegated him to a secondary role with the door open for his departure, although the player will have the final say. In this case, Xabi Alonso did not hesitate to bench the player, something that was more difficult for Ancelotti, who did so in the final stretch after the player refused to play. Everything points to his departure being the best option for both parties.
Real Madrid gives Xabi carte blanche
According to MARCA, Real Madrid is clear that this is the end of the road. The battle of egos and starting spots by decree is over. The club’s management will talk to certain players to find out exactly what they want, what they are looking for, and how far their commitment goes, the newspaper explains.
Real Madrid has told Xabi Alonso that it will support him regardless of the decisions he makes. The club believes there is a serious ego problem in the team and will let Xabi manage it as he sees fit. Vinicius and Mbappé are of particular concern, and it remains to be seen what decisions will be made in this regard. They have immense talent, but the team needs more.