Xabi Alonso hints at big things for one Real Madrid star: “It’s time”

Real Madrid has already arrived in New Jersey, accompanied by its manager, Xabi Alonso. In the lead-up to this Saturday’s Club World Cup quarterfinal against Borussia Dortmund at MetLife Stadium (4pm ET), the Basque coach made his customary appearance to share his thoughts.

Here are the impressions of the Spanish coach:

Will Mbappé start? “He’s improving and has been recovering well. We’ll make the decision in the morning.”

Gonzalo or Mbappé? “Pretty much the same answer. The final decision will come tomorrow morning. Some things I’ve already decided, others I prefer to leave until the last minute—so the players hear it from me first.”

‘It’s win or go home’

With Gonzalo, you’d have three forwards: Kylian, Endrick, and Gonzalo. “I’m counting on all three. Endrick is still recovering. We’re not factoring this into squad planning yet—we’ve barely discussed it.”

Could Gonzalo and Mbappé play together? “Yes. It depends on the moment and the team’s needs. They complement each other, and if the context calls for it, I haven’t ruled it out at all.”

On developing the three central defenders in a short time: “Time is running short. I think Tchouameni can be a hybrid—one role in one phase, another in a different phase. That kind of versatility gives us more options.”

Valverde has been more attacking—he’s had the most shots. Ancelotti once said he’d bet his license on Valverde scoring 10 goals. Would you do the same? “Ancelotti had such a long career that he could afford to make that bet (laughs). I’m just starting out—I can’t take that kind of risk. But Valverde will score plenty.”

Have the sequels been more rock and roll? Is Güler the link? “We’re in the thick of the action. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t—but yes, we need that energy, that adrenaline in the game. It’s win or go home.”

What’s surprised you most about Tchouameni? “I’d seen him plenty before, but up close, you can see how intelligent he is at grasping concepts. What’s important is finding players who complement each other in that area.”

‘This is a time for Arda to grow’

Güler struggles in duels due to his physicality. How can he improve? “It’s about anticipating instead of reacting—about not relying on strength alone. This is a time for Arda to grow. We’re pushing him to gain experience and maturity, knowing he’ll make mistakes and that’s part of the process.”

Modric and the impossibility of one more year: “It was a joy to play alongside him, and now to watch him from the touchline—to see his influence and how much the team learns from him.”

Rodrygo isn’t at his best. Can you help him get back there? “I spoke to him yesterday. He’s in a good frame of mind—eager and ready to step up whenever needed.”

On physical effort in the final stages and Valverde’s discomfort: “We have to manage it, which is why we made substitutions earlier. Valverde was very fatigued and experiencing some discomfort, but he’s recovered well.”

There’s been talk about the tactical tweaks made during cooling breaks. Should football introduce timeouts, or do you prefer a more classic style? “I’m not against exploring the idea, but in general, I’m not sure disruptive elements help the flow of the game. Under normal conditions, I don’t think it’s the best solution.”

Will Mastantuono join before his 18th birthday on August 14? “No, it will be when he turns 18.”

Post-World Cup plans: “There’s still time, but we need to plan ahead. Everyone will need rest, and we’ll train at Valdebebas. No away camps—just a short window and decisions already made with the players.”

Borussia went from dominating to being dominated against Rayados: “It came down to the 2–0 lead and then Monterrey’s strong performance.”

Facing Borussia often—does it help? Is this the same team you’ve faced before? “It’s different now. Niko Kovac has been steadily building the team.”

Medical report? Does the pressure to finalize the squad early influence your decisions? “The list remains the same. The only update is Camavinga, but it might still be a bit early for him.”