Real Madrid marks the start of a new era on Wednesday when they take on Al Hilal in their first group stage match of the Club World Cup. New head coach Xabi Alonso takes the lead on his debut competition and he would like to get started.
And he is not the only one who is enthusiastic, as he has revealed during his press conference before the match that he also sees the players very well, according to Diario ALS.
“I feel that the players are enthusiastic and excited, after closing a fantastic phase. There are new faces and the start has been good. The timing is good for everyone. You have to show it on the field. Tomorrow the Rock and Roll starts.”
Alonso gave insight into his first few weeks at Real Madrid, and he also praised predecessor for the work he did in preparation for his arrival from Bayer Leverkusen.
“We have been recovering people here for a few days and little by little. The internationals in one, those who played later in the United States … But I think the distance determination, the positioning. That is what will make us better. Knowing where we should be, positioning ourselves, being a more 'united' team.
“The daily day is very good and the individual quality is huge. Although I already knew that. Now it's all about working. I respect and appreciate the work of Carlo, the most successful coach in the history of Real Madrid. But now we start a different stage and it will be our way. Although I start with a very good basis.”
Alonso was also clear about what his side should do to be successful.
“Nowadays it is essential that there is a balance. That there is commitment and that everyone is involved in all phases. I want a team that is together, we have spoken about it; because it will make it much easier for us. I am sure that on the last day of the tournament we are a better team than we started, because we started with the right things.
There is a lot of excitement in Real Madrid prior to Alonso's debut, and they will be favorites to refrain Hilal on Wednesday. However, they can be without the services of Kylian Mbappe, which would be a big blow.