Madrid’s Blueprint Unveiled: Alonso Bets on Winged Valverde and Bellingham’s Irreplaceable Rise
3 octobre 2025
Ahead of the Villarreal clash
Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso spoke at a Friday press conference to discuss the upcoming match against Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabéu, as part of La Liga's eighth round.
He stressed that the team is on the right track despite the heavy 2-5 defeat to Atletico Madrid and underscored the need for both collective and individual focus to secure the points before the international break.
Valverde’s flexibility and Bellingham’s role
Alonso praised Fede Valverde for leading the team’s energy and his ability to operate in multiple positions, a trait that adds significant value to the squad. He described Jude Bellingham as an indispensable piece of the project and highlighted the England international’s continued hunger to improve.
He reiterated that both goalkeepers, Thibaut Courtois and Andriy Lunin, remain ready and that rotation will keep everyone engaged as the season progresses.
Approach to the season and squad dynamics
On player management during the international window, Alonso said the club maintains open communication with national teams to prevent fatigue and injuries, with staff closely monitoring training loads.
Regarding potential lineups, he noted Endrick and Rodrygo are ready and have been training well for weeks. He also mentioned that Arda Guler could slot into midfield alongside Bellingham, reflecting the flexible approach the team is taking.
Alonso highlighted that teamwork and balance between personal ambitions and the collective goal remain the key to sustained success, and that every player will get his moment when the time is right.
He stressed confidence in the defensive pairing of Courtois and Lunin, and said either can be called upon when needed, with both showing readiness even if not always in the starting XI.
Madrid’s coach emphasised keeping all players focused by actively involving substitutes in the warm-ups, a habit he believes helps the squad as a whole.
Finally, he praised Bellingham as a cornerstone of the project, noting his determination and the trust players place in him, and he affirmed Endrick and Rodrygo’s readiness to contribute as the season intensifies.
