Xabi Alonso's take on Real Madrid draw with Al Hilal in Club World Cup

The new manager shared frank thoughts on the team's performance, key moments, and early hurdles.

Commenting on a penalty conceded by Marco Asensio, Alonso said, "It was a moment I didn't see clearly, but it was avoidable." He contrasted this with a penalty won by Fran Garcia, which he deemed "clear-cut."

Reflecting on the team's display, Alonso noted, "We lacked many things in the first half. The second half showed a reaction I liked. We controlled the game better, but this is a process that takes time. Anyone expecting perfection on day one was mistaken." Real Madrid's first half was sloppy, with rushed play and lost possession, but their second-half revival against Al Hilal offered encouragement despite not securing the win.

On Marco Asensio's substitution, Alonso revealed, "He's been on antibiotics and struggled physically. The heat didn't help, though it's no excuse. Vinicius Junior had cramps from the 70th minute, and Al Hilal were visibly drained too." The midday kick-off, dictated by broadcast schedules, drew his veiled criticism.

Alonso hailed the debuts of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen, saying, "I'm delighted for them. It's a special day. Dean was excellent, and Trent grew into the game. Both add significant quality." Their arrivals mark a fresh chapter for Real Madrid's backline.

Regarding Kylian Mbappe's absence, Alonso was cautious: "We don't know if he'll be ready for the next match. He's had a serious viral issue, and we'll monitor his recovery." Fans remain anxious for the star's debut.

On young prospect Franco Mastantuono, Alonso was upbeat: "We expect him to contribute from the start. A 17- or 18-year-old can absolutely start for Real Madrid. Time will tell, but we have high hopes."

Delving deeper into the match, Alonso rued the result: "It's a shame we couldn't beat Al Hilal, especially after a strong second half. The first half wasn't good, but it's a learning curve. We lacked balance early, playing too quickly and losing the ball. In the second half, we pressed better and used the ball well, but we missed that killer goal."

Rejecting talk of frustration, Alonso said, "I wasn't frustrated. We had good intentions but knew this would take time. Mistakes are part of growth. The second-half reaction showed promise. Repetition will make our ideas stick."

Alonso's composed outlook signals a patient rebuild at Real Madrid, with glimpses of potential shining through despite the draw against Al Hilal.