Xabi Alonso on Juventus, possible Nico Paz’s return, Endrick’s future and Trent’s fitness

Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso feels Juventus are a ‘tactically rich team’ but was impressed by the ‘organised’ Como’s performance on Sunday.

Xabi Alonso held a press conference on Tuesday on the eve of a Champions League match against Juventus.

Football Italia was among the accredited media at the Real Madrid training centre in Valdebebas.

“It’s a classic of European football; these two teams have met many times,” said Xabi Alonso.

“We are very prepared. I’ve seen a team with the desire to win. We play at home, and we know people go to the Bernabeu with the desire to watch a big game.

“We’re alert for tomorrow. Any Italian team that is struggling can be dangerous. We must not forget history. Juventus are a great team, both from the past and in the present. They have very good players, and Yildiz is one of them. He’s had fantastic growth. I know him; he was at Bayern when I was there. Seeing his progress makes me very happy.”

Brazilian talent Endrick is struggling for playing time and has been linked with leaving Real Madrid in January. Juventus are among the clubs interested, but are the Merengues considering the Brazilian’s loan?

“We’re not at that point yet,” said Xabi Alonso.

“The competition up front is intense. We have to be ready for every match. Endrick, Gonzalo and Brahim must be ready. They’re going to come in, and they have to be prepared. This is elite level, and we need many players, good ones.”

Juventus suffered their first season defeat on Monday, losing 2-0 against Cesc Fabregas’ Como.

“Como were really organised. Juventus slightly changed the way they usually play,” said the Real Madrid boss.

Como’s win was inspired by Nico Paz, who grabbed one goal and one assist. Are Real Madrid already considering bringing him back to the club?

“He’s doing well, not just this season but also in the previous one,” said Xabi.

“He made a smart move there [Como] with that coach. But for now, it’s too soon, we’ll see.”

Former Juventus defender Dean Huijsen is injured and not expected to recover for tomorrow’s match.

“I don’t think Huijsen, Trent or Carvajal will make it for tomorrow,” said Xabi Alonso.

“Tactically, Juventus are a very rich team. They change position a lot and rotate consistently. If you are not well-organised, they’re capable of breaking your balance. In that aspect, we have to be solid, and with the ball, we need to be vertical and take the game where we want it to go.”

Lastly, Xabi Alonso commented on Kylian Mbappé’s performances this season: “It’s not just about the goals. His influence is almost as important for the way his teammates follow him with and without the ball. He’s helping us. He’s scored everywhere. His impact, beyond scoring, is what the team needs. Kylian is in a very good place right now, also personally. He’s very analytical, he does things for a reason and needs to understand them well. Now everything fits in his head and that’s why he’s performing so well.”