Xabi Alonso, the head coach of Real Madrid, has made his expectations clear to his players, particularly to superstars like Kylian Mbappé and Vinicius Jr. In an uncompromising message, Alonso emphasized that no player, regardless of their status or talent, will be guaranteed a place in the starting lineup if they fail to put in the required effort, especially off the ball.
Alonso, who is known for his meticulous and disciplined approach to football, made a point during recent team talks that the team’s forward players need to provide much more than just finishing chances. He explained that it’s not enough for players to simply wait for the ball to come to them. “You don’t have to run like defenders,” he stated, acknowledging that the intensity of effort should not mirror that of a defensive player, but he stressed that constant pressure on the opposition’s defense is non-negotiable.
For Alonso, the idea that talented players like Mbappé and Vinicius can rest on their laurels or passively wait for the ball to arrive is simply unacceptable. “It’s not going to be enough to just stay waiting for them to give you the ball so you can score,” he added. “You’re going to have to run for every ball.” This approach reflects Alonso’s coaching philosophy, where high pressing and relentless work rate are just as important as technical ability.
The directive appears to be rooted in Alonso’s belief that football is a team game, and that the collective effort is what ultimately leads to success. His instructions are clear: superstars or not, the intensity and effort required must be present at all times. “Those who do not run and not make an effort will not play,” he firmly stated, reiterating that talent alone will not guarantee a place in the team. This message is particularly pointed towards his attacking players, who are expected to be active in the press and help defend from the front.
Alonso’s comments have sparked debate among fans and analysts alike, as some might find the directive a little harsh, especially given the extraordinary talents of Mbappé and Vinicius. Both players have demonstrated moments of brilliance on the field, and their individual skills make them a constant threat to any opponent. However, Alonso is unwavering in his stance that effort cannot be compromised, and he has made it clear that the team’s collective mentality and approach will take precedence over individual status.
The relationship between coach and player in elite football clubs is often complex, with top-tier players sometimes showing a certain level of entitlement due to their fame and skill. Alonso, however, seems intent on breaking this mold by emphasizing the importance of effort, discipline, and a shared responsibility for success. It’s a message not just for Mbappé and Vinicius, but for all players in the squad, including newcomers like Jude Bellingham, who must also adhere to the same standards set by their coach.
Alonso’s insistence on hard work and commitment off the ball could be interpreted as an attempt to instill a work ethic that mirrors the very best teams in football history. In his previous role as a player, Alonso was known for his tireless running, intelligence, and ability to control the game both defensively and offensively. As a coach, he seems to be demanding similar qualities from his players, understanding that high-level performances are not just about moments of brilliance, but about maintaining consistency and work ethic in every part of the game.
Moreover, Alonso’s stance also highlights the modern expectations of attacking players. In today’s game, it’s no longer enough for forwards to be passive in their defensive duties, especially when the opposition is in possession. Pressing from the front has become a key component of many successful teams, and Alonso is keen to make sure that Real Madrid’s forwards play their part in this tactical setup.
With the club facing a grueling season ahead, including the upcoming Club World Cup, Alonso’s approach could be crucial in ensuring that Real Madrid not only has the individual talent to win, but also the collective determination and commitment. As the season unfolds, it will be interesting to see how Mbappé, Vinicius, and the rest of the squad respond to their coach’s uncompromising demands. For now, Xabi Alonso has sent a chilling but clear message: no effort, no place.
