Alonso Asks Vinicius And Mbappe To Improve Sustainable Attributes

Kylian Mbappe was asked by Xabi Alonso to help Real Madrid survive (Instagram/@realmadrid).

JAKARTA - Xabi Alonso asked Real Madrid stars, such as Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe to increase their work ethic in the field.

Vinicius and Mbappe faced some criticism last season under Alonso's predecessor, Carlo Ancelotti, for their attempts not to control the ball.

"We all have to defend, 11 players on the pitch have to get involved. They have to see how we want to press, we are all involved--Vini, Jude (Bellingham), Fede (Valverde), Kylian."

"The defense must be more advanced, the better the space meeting (between us). We have to improve it. We are working on it, Vini too," said Alonso.

Apart from that, Real Madrid won Group H of the 2025 Club World Cup after overthrowing Red Bull Salzburg 3-0 on Thursday, June 26, 2025.

Los Blancos ended the group stage with a collection of seven points from two wins and one draw.

Alonso praised the level of competition in the tournament so far, which has shown South American teams compete well against European opponents.

"It's good for European football to see the level of competition out there. You see teams you don't see often, which are very good, at a good level."

"River (Plate), Brasil too. At the beginning (tournament) we all saw European teams, but I think this is good for football in general," said Alonso.

Furthermore, Real Madrid will face Juventus in the round of 16 of the 2025 Club World Cup.

Meanwhile, speculation emerged about Rodrygo's future. However, Alonso said he was pleased with the attitude of the Brazilian international.

In the group's last match, Rodrygo was finally fielded in the 67th minute replacing Vinicius.

"He looked good, enthusiastic. Yesterday (against Pachuca) was a technical decision (not played), but he was still important, he was a special player."

"I think he will play an important role in the 2025 Club World Cup," said Alonso.

The map of the knockout phase of the 2025 Club World Cup will be steep for Real Madrid. You see, they are in the same chart as the strong European teams.

If they can get past Juventus, they might be able to meet Borussia Dortmund in the quarter-finals. Then, if it reaches the semifinals, there is a chance to face Paris Saint-Germain or Bayern Munich.

"Obviously I'm not blind, I've seen the draw, but we will play to win," said Alonso.