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Key Points

Real Madrid's new head coach Xabi Alonso is set to lead the team in their season opener against Osasuna, despite requesting a postponement due to limited recovery time. The legendary midfielder, returning to the club after 11 years, emphasized the team's passion and readiness to compete. Alonso's excitement is palpable as he prepares to step onto the Bernabéu pitch in a new coaching role. The match represents a significant moment for both Alonso and Real Madrid as they begin their new season.

Key Points: Xabi Alonso Readies Madrid for Osasuna Opener Despite Rest Concerns

  • Alonso returns to Madrid for first competitive match after 11-year gap
  • Team prepared to compete despite short recovery period
  • Madrid requested season opener postponement
  • Club World Cup participation limited preparation time
2 min read

'Heart and desire push more than the legs': Alonso on Madrid's request to postpone season opener

Real Madrid's Xabi Alonso embraces first competitive match, highlighting team's resilience and passion despite limited preparation time

"The heart and desire push, sometimes, more than the legs - Xabi Alonso"

New Delhi, Aug 18

Real Madrid were hoping for their La Liga season opener to be postponed, citing insufficient time to recover after the prolonged season saw the side participate in the FIFA Club World Cup. New head coach Xabi Alonso said it would have been nice to get the extra rest but his team is ready to compete.

The club had hoped to push back their scheduled game against Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabeu on August 20 (IST), arguing insufficient recovery and preparation time following their participation in the Club World Cup.

"It's now immutable, but our request, especially for the players' health, would have been nice to receive that support. It couldn't be. We've only had two weeks and there are no excuses. The team can compete tomorrow. The heart and desire push, sometimes, more than the legs," said Alonso in his pre-game conference.

The season opener is also Alonso's first competitive game since returning to the club after an 11-year gap. The Spaniard is already a Real Madrid legend and represented the club, as a player, in 236 official matches between 2009 and 2014. During that time, he won one UEFA Champions League, one European Super Cup, one La Liga title, two Copa del Rey titles, and one Spanish Super Cup.

"We're all approaching it with excitement, enthusiasm, and eager to start the season. It's been a short but intense two weeks, and we're already looking forward to stepping foot at the Bernabéu. We want to start well. The first game is always important. Tomorrow is the day," Alonso said.

When asked on how he feels having returned to the side, Alonso replied, "I have very good memories. I returned to Bayern and felt the affection. Now my role is different, but I'm excited and motivated, eager to feel that connection with the people again. Whatever happens, happens, and whatever I feel. I'm happy."

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
Interesting perspective from Alonso. In India we also see cricket teams playing non-stop, but at least they get proper rotation. Football needs to think about player welfare more seriously.
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Arjun K
Typical Spanish league politics! If this was Barcelona making the request, they would have got the postponement. But I admire Alonso's positive attitude - that's why he's a legend.
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Priya S
As someone who follows both cricket and football, I must say footballers have it much tougher with the schedule. IPL players get proper breaks between matches. Hope Real can manage well despite this!
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Vikram M
Respect to Alonso for not making excuses. That's the mentality that made him great as a player. Hope he brings that same spirit to his coaching. The Bernabeu will be electric tomorrow!
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Kavya N
While I understand the request, football is becoming too commercialized. In India, we see the same with ISL - too many matches in short time. Player health should come first, not money.
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Michael C
As a neutral fan in Delhi, I think this shows why Alonso will be successful. No complaints, just focus on the game. That's the attitude Indian football could learn from!

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