Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso explains poor performance against Rayo Vallecano

Image via Marca

Real Madrid were left disappointed to have played out a goalless draw against Rayo Vallecano in their derby clash. The home side had the better of the play, so there will be a feeling that Los Blancos will take a point, given that they could have left Vallecas with none.

As per Diario AS, head coach Xabi Alonso delivered his assessment of the match. Given Real Madrid’s poor record at Vallecas in recent years, he recognised that it was always going to be an uphill struggle for his side in the south of Madrid.

“We were prepared for a demanding match. In previous years it was difficult here, and this time the same. Rayo demands a lot from you, we could not unbalance, a frenetic context and today it was the same. We didn’t win all the duels, but we didn’t lose them all. It was very disputed. In transitions we couldn’t unbalance, but in defence we held up well. It’s not a lack of intensity.”

Vinicius in action against Rayo Vallecano.
Image via Angel Martinez/Getty Images

It’s now back-to-back matches without a goal for Real Madrid, following on from their 1-0 defeat to Liverpool in the Champions League. Despite this, Alonso is not concerned about his side’s attacking prowess.

“After Anfield, where we were left behind, we wanted a game to take where we wanted. In the second half, anything could have happened. I don’t blame it on the emotional peaks, it’s game by game in La Liga and today we couldn’t get the victory.”

Alonso explains Trent Alexander-Arnold snub

Alonso decided against starting Trent Alexander-Arnold at Vallecas, which ended up costing Real Madrid as Fede Valverde, who started at right-back again, went off injured. He explained his thought-process behind the decision.

“Fede was fine before the game. Trent needs a little more time, during the break he will be able to prepare well.”

Tags La Liga Rayo Vallecano Real Madrid Trent Alexander-Arnold Xabi Alonso

2 Comments

  1. Alongside has to instill a sense of teamwork in his squad. The strkers are playing as individual with all wanting to score. Even if a colleague has goal scoring space someone chooses to shoot than pass the ball

    First 20 minutes Vin was literally walking and not marking. Too much dribbling as opposed to point passing to get a goal. ALONSO should instil a sense of a team that prevails on early goals and quick point passing to get a goal than individual glory.

  2. Real Madrid has NO GOALS IN TWO GAMES .
    They miss penalties more than any other team & YET
    they have the most EXPENSIVE FORWARDS IN THE WORLD .WHY???????????????????
    THEY ALWAYS CONCEDED GOALS but scored more than the other team.

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