Xabi Alonso has 'sidelined' 2 players before facing Mallorca

Real Madrid has had a week of training sessions to keep getting ready. In an unusual preseason with only two weeks of preparation (2 weeks), the team lacked match fitness. That's why they used the first two matches to try to polish some aspects.

The victories against Osasuna and Oviedo allowed Xabi Alonso to draw important conclusions. Against Mallorca, he hopes those steps forward within the team will keep happening. That's why he has prepared the session before the visit of the Bermellón side with special attention to detail.

In fact, as we saw before the training session started, Xabi approached two players. He pulled Mbappé and Mastantuono aside and had a brief talk with them. Although the content of the conversation hasn't been revealed, it's clear that he's paying attention to every detail.

This isn't the first time we've seen the new Madrid coach talking one-on-one with a player. In fact, he did it with Rodrygo to learn firsthand about his feelings.  He wants to be close to his players. This time it was Mbappé and Mastantuono's turn.

Xabi Alonso's plans for this Saturday

This Saturday, Real Madrid will face Mallorca and Xabi Alonso might already have his starting eleven decided. Mbappé has started in both matches and could start again this time at Bernabéu. It will be a good opportunity for him to keep increasing his goal tally at the start of the season.

Vinicius was a substitute against Oviedo, but came off the bench and made a statement with a great performance. A goal and an assist could help him regain his spot in the starting eleven. The third spot in the attack could go to Franco Mastantuono so he can keep adding minutes.

He left a very good impression against Oviedo and against Mallorca he has the chance to keep growing. The Argentine could share the attack for the first time with the Brazilian and the Frenchman. This line is expected to add many minutes throughout the season with Xabi Alonso.