Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso faced reporters before his team takes on Borussia Dortmund at MetLife Stadium. The Spanish coach opened his comments with sad news about Liverpool star Diogo Jota's passing. Alonso said his squad started the day feeling heavy after hearing about the tragic loss. He sent warm thoughts to Jota's family during this difficult time. The news clearly affected everyone at the club.
Alonso shifted focus to the upcoming quarter-final clash against the German side. He reminded everyone that Dortmund recently battled Madrid in the Champions League final. The coach expects another thrilling encounter between these European giants. His players must bring their best performance to advance further. He feels excited about the challenge ahead.
The manager gave updates on star striker Kylian Mbappe's fitness status. Alonso revealed that the French forward keeps getting stronger each day. He will make a final decision about Mbappe's starting position tomorrow morning. The coach likes keeping certain lineup choices open until match day. He wants his players to know these decisions before the media does.
Alonso praised young talents Endrick and Gonzalo Garcia for their recent progress. He expressed confidence in both players' abilities to contribute when needed. The coach believes these rising stars can work well together on the field. He refuses to rule out any tactical combinations at this stage. The manager trusts his squad's depth and versatility.
Alonso shifted focus to the upcoming quarter-final clash against the German side. He reminded everyone that Dortmund recently battled Madrid in the Champions League final. The coach expects another thrilling encounter between these European giants. His players must bring their best performance to advance further. He feels excited about the challenge ahead.
The manager gave updates on star striker Kylian Mbappe's fitness status. Alonso revealed that the French forward keeps getting stronger each day. He will make a final decision about Mbappe's starting position tomorrow morning. The coach likes keeping certain lineup choices open until match day. He wants his players to know these decisions before the media does.
Alonso praised young talents Endrick and Gonzalo Garcia for their recent progress. He expressed confidence in both players' abilities to contribute when needed. The coach believes these rising stars can work well together on the field. He refuses to rule out any tactical combinations at this stage. The manager trusts his squad's depth and versatility.
