Xabi Alonso appeared with a serious expression but a calm discourse after Real Madrid's 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final. The Real Madrid manager lamented not being able to lift the title, although he made it clear that his team competed until the very end and that the season is far from being defined by a single result. Get 20% off UEFA Champions League broadcasts in Spanish on DAZN. "There are mixed emotions. On the one hand, the disappointment of not being able to win the title and not winning the final, but proud because we gave our all throughout the match. We competed and tried until the very end," said the manager, who insisted that the match was much more balanced than the final score reflected. The manager emphasized that Real Madrid came close to forcing extra time, especially in the final minutes. "It was a very even match, with different moments and circumstances. We were very close, with those last two chances to equalize and go all the way," he explained, hinting that the outcome could have been different with a bit more accuracy.

Analysis of the match and the physical difficulties

Alonso positively assessed the attitude of his players, despite the unfavorable result. "The team showed great attitude and commitment. We had to hold onto the ball… we need to make some adjustments. We didn't concede in the first 30 minutes, and then we lost possession and conceded that first goal," he analyzed regarding the match.

The coach recalled that the 2-2 draw at halftime kept Madrid's chances alive. "The second half was quite competitive and even matched. We were close. We conceded the rebound to make it 3-2... I was convinced we could tie the game, but we weren't clinical in the last two chances," he added. Injuries were another key point in his analysis of the Classic. “Injuries affect you, Valverde's substitution due to injury, Vinicius has only gotten so far… it's not about physical condition, but injuries are hindering our stability.” “Some players are making an extra effort,” he stated, acknowledging that the team has had to adapt to a demanding context.

Vinicius,Mbappe and the message for the future

Xabi Alonso especially highlighted the performance of Vinicius Junior, who scored again after a long drought. "Vinicius played very well until the 85th minute, but asked to be substituted due to cramps. He had a great game. The goal was spectacular," he praised.

He also explained the management of Kylian Mbappe, who came on in the final stretch after recovering from a sprain. "Kylian was going to come on just before we conceded the 3-2. With 20 minutes left, we were looking for an opening, a threat... it came a little late, but we wanted to push hard at the end," he commented. Alonso clarified that the Frenchman was not fit to start due to the intensity of the match required. Despite the emotional blow of losing a final against their biggest rival, the coach's message was clear and optimistic. "We're not happy with the result, but we can take some positives. There's a long season ahead, we have to turn things around as soon as possible and focus on all the competitions we have," he concluded.