Victory Over Oviedo Strengthens Alonso's Intention To Maintain The Latest Squad

Xabi Alonso is satisfied with the current Real Madrid squad (Instagram/@realmadrid).

JAKARTA - Real Madrid's victory over Real Oviedo 3-0 in the second week of La Liga 2025/2026, Monday, August 25, 2025, early morning WIB, gave Xabi Alonso an overview of his squad.

In that match, Vinicius Junior was replaced by Rodrygo on the starter list. In fact, Rodrygo is often associated with the departure from Bernabeu this summer.

However, after Alonso saw Rodrygo's slick appearance even though it was only about an hour, it strengthened him to keep the striker.

Previously, a Spaniard had mentioned that he did not want to sell anyone in his squad this summer, including Rodrygo, who did not play in La Liga's opener last week.

Rodrygo has also told Alonso that he wants to be played on the left flank from now on. His performance against Oviedo on the left side of the attack greatly contributed to the team.

Apparently, it was Rodrygo's chance to leave the little Bernabeu considering he was already played in the desired position.

"(Rodrygo) played well. In the first half, he connected well to Alvaro (Carreras), Arda (Guler), Kylian."

"He fired several shots. Oviedo played defensively and found it difficult to find space. However, I like it. We need everyone," said Alonso.

Apart from Rodrygo, Alonso also praised captain Dani Carvajal and Franco Mastantuono for debuting as starters--10 days after being introduced as Real Madrid players.

"Mastantuono played very well. In a short time, he was connected to his team and teammates. He looks integrated in our game."

"He will make us a lot of contributions in the short, medium and long term," said the Spaniard.

Real Madrid are looking to bounce back this season under coach Alonso - after failing to win the main trophy in the 2024/2025 season under Carlo Ancelotti. Now they have collected six points from two league games.

"We had a good rhythm in the first half, we were dominant. Our rhythm was very good. In the second half, we decreased a bit, Oviedo performed better."

"However, we won the ball in defense. The last two goals gave us calm. It was a very complete match, with a great attitude from the team," said Alonso.