Alonso’s Injury Update and Mbappe’s Status Set the Stage for a Big Getafe Test

Injury update and Getafe preview

Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso confirmed that midfielder Dani Ceballos has a fresh injury and will miss the upcoming Getafe game at the Coliseum Alfonso Perez. The remarks came during a training-ground press conference as the team returned from the international break.

Alonso underscored a methodical approach, saying the emphasis is on each match rather than the pace of the season, with a commitment to steady progress in all competitions.

He clarified that Ceballos’s absence stems from the new injury and highlighted the need for caution during this phase. Despite the setback, Alonso noted the player’s values and potential, while acknowledging he will not feature against Getafe.

Regarding the Getafe clash in La Liga, Alonso pointed out that all squad members returning from international duty were in good shape except Ceballos. He added that Getafe is a tough opponent, guided by a coach who knows how to maximize his players’ strengths.

Contemporary issues: away fixtures, discipline, and squad depth

On the topic of playing official matches outside Spain, Alonso again reiterated his stance against the idea, arguing that such decisions undermine fair competition. He also emphasized that protests from clubs are legitimate expressions of opinion, and the club stands with a unified position.

The Spaniard also touched on the pause in football caused by protests and stressed that the team’s stance remains unchanged, with decisions beyond the club’s control but a clear, unwavering point of view.

Discipline in the locker room was highlighted as essential. Alonso stressed that respect and daily routines are crucial given a crowded schedule, with the squad maintaining a rigorous routine to stay sharp.

Turning to Raúl Asensio, Alonso praised the young defender for his anticipation and physicality, noting that continued development will unlock more benefits. He also highlighted Raúl’s potential to fit into a back three and his overall competitiveness rooted in the club’s academy history.

Regarding Ferland Mendy’s return and defense choices, Alonso called the news positive. He indicated that a full recovery will take time but opens up options, with roles flexible enough for Fran, Alvaro, and Mendy to cover multiple positions as needed. The coach mentioned that Madrid has previously used five defenders and may revisit that approach later in the campaign.

Alonso described the upcoming period as among the toughest phases of the season, yet stressed the importance of maintaining stability across all tournaments. The focus remains on Getafe, a strong and well-organized side that will test Madrid’s consistency.

On Dani Ceballos’s developing role, Alonso reiterated his high regard for the midfielder, noting that Ceballos has delivered precisely what he expected. He cautioned that Ceballos must be careful this period but remains a valued contributor who will miss the next match.

On Vinícius Junior and Rodrygo with Brazil, Alonso recalled Brazil’s recent performance and suggested that Vinícius has occasionally been used as a false nine, though he typically plays as a winger. The coach hinted at ongoing experimentation, with potential future applications of this approach against certain rivals.

When asked about Kyliian Mbappe, Alonso gave a concise update: Mbappe’s ankle is fine, and he is in the squad with a chance to start. The response reflected a cautious balance between squad depth and readiness for selection.

Finally, Alonso paid homage to Vicente Del Bosque, explaining that he respects the former Real Madrid coach’s long tenure and guidance. He stressed that he is at the start of his own journey, opening up to learning from a coaching legend while continuing his own development.

Looking ahead to the attackers Endrick and Gonzalo, the coach said there is no immediate thought of letting either depart. Both are ready to compete for minutes in a squad that remains strong in every forward position, with no current plan to part ways with them.

Regarding Jude Bellingham’s form post-recovery, Alonso praised the player for training longer after shoulder surgery and noted that his condition is notably improved. He emphasized the importance of having the best version of Bellingham, a key element whose return timing is eagerly anticipated.

As for humor alongside the serious talk, the coach kept a steady tone but added a light note about the unpredictability of football, underscoring the joy of navigating a season full of twists and turns with a capable squad.

Punchline 1: If football were a puzzle, Alonso would insist the missing piece is usually a sprig of olive oil—melt the stress, keep the team crisp. Punchline 2: Getafe may think Madrid is predictable, but with this squad, expect more plot twists than a telenovela in a referee’s notebook.