Coach Xabi Alonso’s Transfer Update
In a recent statement, coach Xabi Alonso declared that Real Madrid’s transfer activities are likely concluded for the summer, confirming that midfielder Dani Ceballos will remain with the team. Meanwhile, he expressed his satisfaction with forward Rodrygo, who had also been suggested as a potential departure during the transfer period.
New Arrivals and Departures
Earlier in the transfer window, Madrid had welcomed several new players, including Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, Álvaro Carreras, and Franco Mastantuono. Among the players rumored to leave, Ceballos stood out, especially after his near move to Marseille fell through this past week. This change occurred as Ceballos opted to hold out for a potential opportunity with his boyhood club, Real Betis, before the upcoming transfer deadline on Monday.
“Probably,” Alonso stated at a press conference on Friday, shortly before Madrid’s LaLiga match against Mallorca. “I want to stay cautious until the window officially closes, but it does seem likely that we’ve wrapped things up for the summer.”
Despite being a significant contributor in the previous season under former coach Carlo Ancelotti, Ceballos has only seen limited action this season, racking up just four minutes over two games.
“I had a conversation with Dani recently,” Alonso explained. “I was aware of the move to Marseille, but in the end, things turned out the way they did. Nothing changes regarding his status; he’s staying with us, and that makes me pleased. He should share more about his situation, but the decision is final; his role remains unchanged.”
Praising Team Dynamics
Alonso also praised Rodrygo, who showcased his skills last weekend by starting as a left-wing player ahead of Vinícius Júnior in Madrid’s victory over Oviedo.
“Playing on the left is an excellent role for him,” said Alonso. “He engages well and seeks opportunities for one-on-one situations. After a spell of limited playtime, it was crucial for him to feel integrated into the team; that’s promising.”
Further highlighting the team’s dynamics, Alonso commended Vinícius Júnior for his impactful contribution off the bench, where he scored and assisted against Oviedo, emphasizing the former Ballon d’Or runner-up as an essential asset for the current season.
Upcoming Challenges
The recent Champions League draw has put Real Madrid in a challenging group where they will face well-established teams, including Manchester City, Liverpool, and Juventus, along with a trip to Olympiacos and a lengthy distance journey to Kazakhstan’s Kairat Almaty.
“This group is certainly tough, but the caliber of our opponents also drives us forward,” Alonso remarked. “The case with Almaty is unique; we’ll need to strategize our logistics carefully considering the distances involved and prior travel plans.”
Overall, as the transfer window closes and with demanding matches ahead, Alonso’s focus appears firmly on the current squad and the season that lies ahead.
