Real Madrid’s Xabi Alonso Confirms Mbappé Will Face Rotation, Vini Jr. Status Unclear for Espanyol Clash
SAN SEBASTIÁN – Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso has indicated that even star forward Kylian Mbappé will be rotated within the squad, mirroring a similar approach to Vinícius Júnior, whose starting position for Saturday’s La Liga match against Espanyol remains uncertain. Alonso’s comments underscore a commitment to maintaining squad depth adn ensuring all players feel valued as Real Madrid continues it’s perfect start to the season.
Alonso refrained from confirming whether Vinícius will feature in the starting lineup against Espanyol, stating, “We will see what happens tomorrow.” He emphasized the positive contributions of both Vinícius and Rodrygo, regardless of whether they begin a match or enter as substitutes. “Both in the starting lineup and off the bench, their impact have been very good,” Alonso said. “Rodrygo’s quality, his ability to move forward, his ability to link up… but Vinícius also has that.”
The coach’s stance signals a broader philosophy of squad management,with Alonso stressing the importance of every player in his team. “For me, ther are many important players in this squad,” he explained. “In terms of level, experience, track record, and what they’ll bring us. Vinícius is one of them, Jude [Bellingham], Fede [Valverde], Aurélien [Tchouaméni], Dean [Huijsen], Arda [guler] … I value everyone very much and I want the whole team to feel critically important. Everyone is in this boat, and we need everyone rowing in the same direction.”
Alonso also confirmed that Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga are nearing full fitness after recovering from shoulder surgery (Bellingham, as July) and various injuries (Camavinga, since April) respectively, and could see minutes in upcoming games.However, Dean Huijsen will be unavailable for the Espanyol match due to a red card received during last weekend’s 2-1 win at Real Sociedad. Real Madrid has won all five games this season.
