Alonso reveals the meaning behind his strange pitch markings during training

Without getting drawn in but firmly asserting his authority, Xabi Alonso declined to say whether Mastantuono will start tomorrow. “Anyone in the squad can start.” He gave the same evasive response when asked if Vinicius is a guaranteed starter. On Rodrygo, he urged against rushing to conclusions: “For me, the season and my time with the squad have barely begun. We’re only one game in.”

He also clarified that the Brazilian’s absence against Osasuna was not due to any club directive to push him out: “All decisions about playing and selecting the starting eleven are solely and exclusively mine.”

On the upcoming match, he said: “It’s certainly a special match for Oviedo and their fans. For us, it’s the third week since we began, but we’re excited for tomorrow’s game.”

Xabi Alonso’s pre-match press conference:

How do you see the game? I’m sure it’s a special match for Oviedo and its fans. For us, it’s very important to keep growing away from home, to be competitive, and to maintain a high level no matter where we play. It’s only our third week, but we’re excited for tomorrow’s match.

Can Mastantuono start? I saw him in good shape the other day. He brought energy and impact. Since he’s in the squad, he has the same chance to play as anyone else.

What is Santi Cazorla like? I haven’t spoken to him because I’ve been more focused on the team. But I have spectacular memories of him as both a player and teammate. At Euro 2008 we had a great dressing room, and he was part of that. You can see the affection fans have for him, and in football terms, he’s exceptional. I’m very happy for all he has achieved. Now he’s back home, and I hope he enjoys being a role model at Oviedo.

Is Vinicius a sure starter for you? I said the other day that the World Cup context is a bit different. We’re only one game in, and statistics should be taken with caution. All the players are important, I’m counting on them, and since I’ve been making the squad, anyone can start.

We’ve seen you’ve marked the training pitch. What for? For tactical and positional work, to give us references. It’s something I’ve always done as a coach, and it helps us daily.

Rodrygo only started on the opening day. Have you spoken to him about his role? For me, the season has just begun. We’ve only played one game. All decisions about lineups and playing time are mine, solely and exclusively. I speak to many players, and of course, I’ve spoken with Rodrygo.

Free-kick takers? We haven’t worked much on it yet, but we have quality players: Arda, Trent, Mastantuono, Kylian... We still need to decide, but there are plenty of options.

Do you consider the squad complete? Would you like a midfielder? I’m happy with the squad, but you always have to be prepared.

Do you see Mastantuono mainly as an attacking player? He can play both deeper and as a playmaker. He often played as a number 10 at River Plate. He has the quality and mobility to do both, and the ability to connect with those around him.

Does not having Bellingham affect you? You have to adapt. No one will play every minute; everyone has their role.

In Argentina there was controversy because Mastantuono was called by his first name, Franco. Have you spoken to him about it? No, but I’m focused on the player. Franco looks good. He’s fitting in well, seems like he’s been here longer, and he’s smiling a lot.

Does the noise surrounding Vinicius worry you? I think he’s fine. The season has barely started, and everyone is eager to have a good year. The group is in a good frame of mind, and that’s key.

Is this 4-3-3 your system? We talk a lot about how we can improve. With so few games, there’s limited information, so we need to analyze. We have players suited to different systems, but the important thing is keeping a clear idea. We can be flexible.

How far are you from Barcelona? Do you feel behind them? I’m not worried about that. I’m focused on our level and how we’re doing. Week by week we’ll keep improving and growing as a team.

Do you expect to get Mbappé back to his best form? Do you have a set goal target for him? No. My job is to help him so he can help the team win games. He’s fundamental for us. The better all the pieces fit together, the stronger we’ll be as a team. That will be one of the keys to our season.