Xabi Alonso opens up on Real Madrid “tension”

Real Madrid’s next match is against Marseille in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at 3:00 PM ET. Before that clash, the coach of the Spanish side spoke to the press about his players, the recent refereeing controversy, and the pressure of being at the 15-time European champions.

“Defending our interests is legitimate,” responds Xabi Alonso. Firm. And in reference to the now-famous refereeing dossier that will be submitted to FIFA. He didn’t want to focus on a single topic, in his words, but it was almost inevitable. About his “don’t make me think badly” comment in San Sebastián, he said it was the “tension” of the moment. And he closed the matter: “I feel just as calm with European refereeing as I do with Spanish refereeing.”

“Mbappé is a leader… and I don’t see him anxious to win his first Champions League,” he says. And he defends Vinicius, after being substituted at the Reale Arena: “It wasn’t the best moment to play offensively; he’s in good spirits to start tomorrow. Finally, regarding the surprise anti-doping control that took place this morning: “That’s not something we control.”

− How do you approach this match? “We’re starting off with the utmost excitement to play in the Champions League with Madrid. It’s even more special for this club, and being at the Bernabéu is incredibly motivating. Everyone is eager to take steps forward and continue growing. We face a tough opponent, and we hope to start well.”

− On TV, you were seen saying to the referee, ‘don’t make me think badly.’ Do you ever think badly? “We discussed the tension. I’ve already shared my thoughts in the press conference, and that’s where it ends. Now it’s time to focus on the Champions League.”

− How did you feel about having to take the drug tests today? “We’re out of control. Training has been delayed, but that’s all. There’s nothing more to it.”

− How is Vinicius handling his current role? What conversations have you had with him? “Yes, we’ve talked, as I do with many players. Given the context of the game, after a great performance, he came off in the 70th minute—it wasn’t the ideal time to keep pushing offensively. He sacrificed himself for the team, and it was a collective victory. He’s in good spirits and ready to start tomorrow.”

− Carvajal has won six Champions League titles with you. How has he changed since you met him and after his injury? “One thing hasn’t changed: his competitive gene. He brought it with him when he arrived in 2013-14 from Leverkusen. He’s always been crucial, and his contributions helped us win the Champions League. What has evolved is his influence, maturity, and role as captain—his respect and responsibility within the group. Now that he’s fit, he has a very positive impact on the team. Leaders like him are essential; they help pull the squad forward. Carvajal has embraced that. He supported others, and now it’s his turn to lead.”

− Do you think people will question the refereeing after the payments to Negreira? “I don’t want the refereeing issue to dominate our thinking. Let’s focus on tomorrow. The Anoeta incident has been discussed enough.”

− Ancelotti said he feels more comfortable with European refereeing. Which do you feel more comfortable with? “I feel equally at ease with both. I’m not concerned about tomorrow’s game or the next league match.”

− Did you expect this level from Mbappé? “The World Cup was easy for Kylian due to his gastroenteritis, and we were just getting to know each other. Kylian really likes to understand the game, and then he brings that individual quality. But it’s not just about Kylian, Vini, or Rodrygo—we rely on collective quality for them to excel. I don’t take credit for that.”

− You left in 2014, extending your career by three more years, helping lay the foundation for the club’s best era. Do you think you left too soon? “No, those were five very intense years. Winning that Champions League was a tough job. We reached three semi-finals before finally claiming the Décima. Many of us learned that to win, you have to lose—sometimes a lot. Then came the Zizou years, which were incredible. That period was historic and unique. I left peacefully because I had achieved it.”

− Do you see Kylian as a leader within the group? “No doubt. By personality and experience, he’s already one of them. As the group consolidates, he knows who to follow. Kylian is fully part of that core.”

− Real Madrid’s complaint to FIFA “It’s legitimate to defend our interests. As long as the club handles it, it’s fine.”

− Do you see Mbappé eager to win his first Champions League? “He’s not anxious. We see a project that’s just beginning. One goal is to win the Champions League sooner rather than later. Kylian is part of the journey, but today we focused on the present, not on May.”

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− Does being the most successful club in Europe help or add pressure? “It’s a fact, an honor, a motivation, and a responsibility—all of which you enjoy.”

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