Real/OM – Xabi Alonso calm and confident before the Bernabéu clash

Confidence and Ambition at the Bernabéu

Just a few hours before Real Madrid – OM kicks off the 2025/26 Champions League campaign, Xabi Alonso appeared before the press. Facing questions from journalists, the Madrid coach showed no sign of concern. Ambitious, composed and clear-headed, he emphasized the importance of the collective and the leadership figures in his locker room.

On European Expectations

Q: Do you feel anxious about not having won the Champions League yet?

Xabi Alonso: “Anxious, no. We see a project that is only just beginning. One of the goals is to win the Champions League as soon as possible. Kylian is part of the journey, but I don’t see him anxious. We talked about today, not about May.”

On Kylian Mbappé, the Expected Leader

Q: Can Mbappé be considered a leader?

X.A.: “Without a doubt. Through his personality, his experience… he is one of them. When this group comes together, Kylian already knows who to follow.”

Q: How do you assess his form?

X.A.: “The Club World Cup was tough for him because of a stomach bug. But we’re getting to know each other. He enjoys understanding the game. Then he brings his individual quality. But it’s not just about Kylian, Vini or Rodrygo: it’s the collective that enables their brilliance.”

Carvajal, the New Respected Captain

Q: What role does Dani Carvajal play today?

X.A.: “His competitive gene has been there since he was a kid. But now, with his maturity, his status as captain, and the respect of the group, he has huge influence. Carva has seen a lot and now it’s his turn to take on that role.”

Vinicius and Managing the Stars

Q: How is your relationship with Vinicius?

X.A.: “Like with many others. Against Sociedad, after a big effort, I took him off in the 70th minute for the sake of the team. He sacrificed himself, and it was a collective victory. He has the energy to start tomorrow.”

Madrid Ready to Begin Their Campaign

Q: What is your mindset ahead of this European campaign?

X.A.: “We start with maximum enthusiasm. With Madrid, playing the Champions League is special, even more so at the Bernabéu. We have a demanding opponent and we hope to start well.”

A Real Confident in Its Strengths

In the end, Alonso showed neither nervousness nor arrogance. The former midfielder expressed one conviction: Real is still under construction but already ready to dominate. With Mbappé as the attacking leader, Carvajal as the charismatic captain, and a talented youth framed by a solid core, Madrid intends to start its European journey as the boss.

For OM, the message is clear: it will take a feat to disturb Madrid’s composure.