Xabi Alonso defends Real Madrid after controversy

In the run-up to the eagerly awaited Champions League debut against Olympique de Marseille, Xabi Alonso did not shy away from questions about Real Madrid's recent formal complaint to FIFA about refereeing. The Merengue coach was clear: he supports the club and considers defending its interests to be “legitimate.”

“As long as the club defends what it considers fair, I think it's fine. It's not a one-off, it's our right,” the strategist said at a press conference. However, he was also adamant in his intention to put the episode behind him: “I already said what I thought at the time, now it's time to look ahead to the Champions League.”

Huijsen's suspension and tension at Anoeta

The issue gained momentum after Dean Huijsen's controversial suspension in the match against Real Sociedad, a decision that Alonso protested from the bench, arguing that he was not the last man. “It was the result of the tension of the match. I don't want this to be the only topic of conversation,” he said, seeking to close the chapter.

The coach insisted that the team must look ahead: “What happened at Anoeta has been discussed enough. We are thinking about what is coming up, and tomorrow we have an important challenge.”

Preparation for the Champions League

Beyond the controversy, Alonso was excited about the start of the Champions League. “Playing at the Bernabéu is always special. The fans are eager to take steps forward and continue growing. Marseille is a tough opponent, but we hope to get off to a good start,” he said.

The coach also spoke about the condition of his key players. Regarding Vinícius, he explained that his substitution in the last game was tactical: “He has the energy to start tomorrow.” He also praised Mbappé's leadership: “He is undoubtedly a leader, both in terms of his personality and the influence he has on the rest of the team.”

Final message of calm

Unlike his predecessor Carlo Ancelotti, Alonso chose to cool down the debate about refereeing and focus on the immediate future: “I feel neither more nor less calm about European refereeing. I have no concerns whatsoever, either for tomorrow or for the next league game.”

With this message, Xabi Alonso seeks to restore calm to the Madrid camp and focus all attention on the European challenge ahead. Madrid needs to put the controversy behind them and concentrate on their main objective: lifting the Champions League trophy once again.