Alonso reveals how Real Madrid intend to respond to Atletico loss

Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso remained on message on Friday ahead of his side’s clash with Villarreal on Saturday night. Despite a 5-0 win over Kairat Almaty, many will be looking to see how Los Blancos respond against a sterner test in the Yellow Submarine, following their 5-2 defeat in the Madrid derby last week.

Plenty will be keen to see how the famously fickle Bernabeu responds to the team, in their first home game since an historic defeat.

“I’m not asking for anything; we have to be the ones to give. We’re going to try to win by being proactive; the way we intend,” explained Alonso.

Alonso echoed his message from after the derby with Atletico Madrid, that his side were focused on keeping the loss in perspective.

“We don’t have to be too high in victory, nor too low in defeat. The more balanced we are, the better we’ll handle everything and the more effective our performance will be. This happened, happens, and will happen at any club. We haven’t forgotten it, but we haven’t gotten caught up in it.”

Midfield debate with Arda Guler and Jude Bellingham

Another of the debates posited by the derby was the position of Jude Bellingham, who looked an awkward fit against Atletico in his first start. He was not called up to the England squad by Thomas Tuchel.

“No relief [that he’s not going], it’s just a matter of time before he returns, he’ll do it next . Jude is bit by bit getting better after his injury, eager to contribute and give his all. He’s a fundamental player for us, due to his quality. It’s just a matter of time before he reaches his best.”

In terms of his fit together with Arda Guler, Alonso was asked how htey might coexist.

“They can be complementary; we have to see how we position the other pieces. Getting to the number ten position, Jude’s position, is very important for me. Guler has played further back and can do it. They have to flow and feel comfortable; because I’ve seen them play comfortably. They can do it. And they will, for sure.”

Endrick or Gonzalo Garcia

Meanwhile Endrick Felipe is yet to get on the pitch following his hamstring injury, while Gonzalo Garcia Torres has also received less minutes than expected. Alonso was asked about Endrick’s role, and what he can do differently to Garcia.

“He has a chance to start (laughs). He’s coming off a slightly longer injury, but he’s been training well for a few weeks, and it’s a matter of finding the right match context for him to come in. He’s a goal-scorer, a brutal finisher. There’s just a lot of competition; but the time will come.”