Xabi Alonso: “We’re still in the mix, it’s a long season”

Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso spoke to the media after their 1-1 draw with Girona on Sunday. He was asked about their title chances this season, to which he said: “In the second half, especially, there was improvement; we pushed forward and created more chances. We had enough opportunities to win. But we lacked accuracy. Not winning… well, we’re still in the mix, it’s a long season, and we have to keep going.”

Alonso on what the team needs

“A season has different phases. There were times, especially at the beginning, when we were consistent. And lately, there have been phases… today, the second half was much better than the first. And we were able to come back. The team was eager to overcome the 1-0 deficit. But we lacked the finishing touch… we had three or four clear chances inside the box to score the second goal and win. But we have to maintain the high standards that come with playing for Real Madrid. And this is a long season.”

Alonso on complaints about the players’ attitude

“No, none. I liked the reaction today; it wasn’t enough, but we were close. We have to maintain the unity we have, with the necessary self-criticism. We’re eager to win away from home, something that has affected us a lot in this schedule. We have an opportunity in Bilbao on Wednesday. We’ll see.”

Alonso on attacking football

“We lacked the ability to play more good, attacking football, to be dominant. We did much more of that in the second half, and that’s what we want. Why didn’t we achieve it? That’s what we need to analyse, look at… and try to do from the start. Or maintain that level in the second half, if we did it in the first. I said it the other day in the press conference, and it’s somewhat the same thing today.”

Alonso on Athletic Club

“It’s an opportunity to win away from home again, but the points are what they are. We’re still in the mix; this is going to be a long season, and the standings are going to get very tight. There will be a lot of back and forth. We’re playing for three points… but yes, Bilbao is a good time to win. We need it, and we want it. After today… well, we’ll look at how we can do better.“

Alonso on the Rodrygo incident

“I haven’t seen it, but I’ve been told it was a VAR review because of the contact. It’s surprising… but oh well, we’ll have to see it. These are decisive plays that can change the game.”