Two people at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, one wearing a Real Madrid uniform and the other in casual clothes, with the stands full of fans and the soccer field in the background.
Mbappé and Xabi Alonso with Bernabéu in the background | Camara Real Madrid Confidencial
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Mbappé reveals his conversation with Xabi Alonso and 'promises' to put pressure: 'Everything that...'

Mbappé talks to the coach, he's excited, and makes a promise for the future

by

Borja Díaz

Xabi Alonso has arrived at Real Madrid this summer to take charge of the Merengue locker room. He comes to fill Ancelotti's position, with several important matters to address. One of them is continuing to bring out the best version of Mbappé, which we've already seen this season.

Kylian also seems very excited about the arrival of the Basque as the new coach. In fact, during the international break, he revealed the conversation he has already had with him. Both reportedly spoke to exchange views for next season and to find out what the coach wants.

Soccer player in a white Real Madrid uniform pointing to the team’s crest on his jersey during a match
Mbappé pointing to himself during a match with Real Madrid | Real Madrid Confidencial

"I've spoken several times with Xabi Alonso," Mbappé began when talking about their conversations. He surprised with the confession he made about it: "I'm very excited to have a coach like him." He seems very happy with his arrival at Real Madrid.

He also stated that "we're willing to learn everything he tells us, tactics and more." That means he'll roll up his sleeves and press, something Xabi always demands from his players. Mbappé says he'll do it "because we want to win and we believe we can achieve it."

Mbappé under the spotlight last season for his attitude

It's true that Mbappé struggled to adapt to Real Madrid during the first months of last season. However, once he was more comfortable, he managed to bring out his full potential. Especially in attack, where he won the Pichichi and the Golden Boot as the best forward in Europe.

A player in a white uniform controls the ball on the field while a referee points at something in the background.
Mbappé in a match with Real Madrid | Real Madrid Confidencial

However, he drew a lot of attention, especially for his limited defensive involvement with the team. He wasn't seen pressing, and he allowed opponents to start play far too easily. That was something Ancelotti complained about, as he saw the team split during the ball recovery phase.

Xabi Alonso works on that a lot, asking players to give their maximum effort in defense. He's going to ask Mbappé for the same: work and collaboration with the rest of his teammates. It seems the Frenchman is willing after hearing his words expressing excitement about his new coach.

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