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Xabi Alonso set to hand Real Madrid fringe player a rare start vs Espanyol

Real Madrid have enjoyed picture perfect start to life under new coach Xabi Alonso, with Los Blancos currently leading the table with four wins in four matches.

In light of Real Madrid’s brilliant start, Xabi Alonso recently sat down with UEFA to talk about the club’s Champions League ambition this season. He also talked at length about the new chapter of his coaching career.

Xabi Alonso on Champions League

Talking about Real Madrid’s Champions League ambitions, Alonso pointed out that winning the prestigious trophy is indeed the club’s ultimate goal this season.

“It’s a legendary feat; it’s we all aspire to. We know how complex it is, which is why winning 15 titles and securing many of them recently is extraordinary, but it’s undoubtedly the ultimate goal,” he said.

Alonso’s statement comes in the wake of Real Madrid’s UCL opener against Marseille later tonight.

The Real Madrid coach admitted that everything must fall into place if Los Blancos are to compete for the UCL this season.

“However, to achieve it, we need to build on many factors, and we want to be well-prepared and take it step by step,” he said.

SAN SEBASTIAN, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 13: Xabi Alonso, Head Coach of Real Madrid, looks on prior to the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Sociedad and Real Madrid CF at Reale Arena on September 13, 2025 in San Sebastian, Spain. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Xabi Alonso is focus on his objective at Real Madrid. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Alonso on team spirit, Real Madrid training

Alonso went on to talk about Real Madrid’s training regime and how he is dictating things in the training ground.

“First, you have feel ready for the, because it’s a huge responsibility, but the challenge is exciting, with all the possibilities, and with everything that comes with coaching players at this high level, and playing every weekend, every two weeks at the Bernabeu,” he said.

“When you put it all together, it inspires you and motivates you. It excites you, because it’s a very strong challenge, and it’s just the beginning, but I’m approaching it with great enthusiasm. Management here in Madrid is fundamental,” he added.

The new Real Madrid coach also talked about team spirit and how it is important to stick together as a group.

“The spirit, the team spirit. That is the most important thing for achieving success,” he said.

“You must have this communication with the players, you need to know which buttons to press so that each player can build this connection,” he added.

Alonso concluded by pointing out how communication is integral to any team’s success on the pitch.

“It is just as important as understanding the game and knowing how to communicate with the players and make them feel this connection. You have to be effective,” he concluded.

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