Xabi Alonso faced the media at Real Madrid City with full attention on the task ahead.
The Copa del Rey returns. Talavera stand in Madrid’s path. Respect and readiness remain the message.
The Real Madrid boss underlined the unique nature of the cup.
Alonso stressed that preparation will not drop despite the difference in profile.
“The Cup is a special competition because it gives us the opportunity to play against teams like Talavera, whom we have never faced before,” he told media.
“It is a competition that we must approach with the same respect and preparation, and hopefully we will achieve our objective tomorrow. We are ready.”
Momentum also matters at this stage of the season.
With the Christmas break approaching, Alonso wants his side sharp.
Finishing strong remains a priority. So does constant improvement.
“We need to prepare it with the necessary seriousness and professionalism; it will be fundamental. The focus is on what’s coming, on finishing well before the Christmas break, but always with the ambition and demand to improve.”
Questions around squad selection were met with calm clarity.
“This topic hasn’t been discussed. We always focus on the match and fielding the best players for each game. We’ll see in the next two.”
Alonso also touched on refereeing standards. The tone was measured but firm.
“In every league, there are referees with different styles. But here, there’s a case that needs to be investigated and those responsible held accountable. What happened here is very surprising abroad and it’s not normal.”
As kickoff approaches, Real Madrid’s mindset is clear. The Copa del Rey journey begins with no room for complacency.
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