Alonso Saya Mbappé “Much Better”, Assesses Readiness For Supercopa Final

Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has addressed the media ahead of Sunday’s Spanish Super Cup final against Barcelona, stressing his side’s readiness for the occasion while offering updates on squad fitness and key selection decisions involving Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Jr. in Jeddah, according to Madrid Universal.

Alonso reflected on the significance of the fixture and the chance to claim his first trophy as Real Madrid manager, describing the final as a special moment for the team.

“We have the opportunity to play in the final and it’s a special match. We’ve wanted to be here for a long time. Tomorrow the emotional aspect will be important; we have to know how to compete in order to win,” he said.

Providing an update on Mbappé, who travelled with the squad after recovering from a minor injury, Alonso explained that the forward’s availability would depend on his condition in training.

“He’s much better. The initial idea was that he was just fit to play against Atlético, so we decided not to rush him, but if we reached the final, depending on how he felt, he would come,” Alonso stated, adding: “When he trains today, we’ll have all the information we need to assess him and see if he’s ready to start or play a little less.”

On whether to risk starting Mbappé in such a high-stakes game, Alonso underlined the need for careful judgment.

“We have to measure the risk. Know what’s at stake and take responsibility for the decisions. We’re not kamikazes when it comes to making decisions. It’s a controlled risk,” he said.

The Real Madrid coach also addressed the differing recovery periods between both sides, noting that Barcelona had more time to prepare but insisting his team would maximise their own window.

“That’s how the draw came about. We can’t change that. We have to use our time as best we can to prepare for the final against a demanding team. There’s a mental, emotional, and also a footballing aspect. We have to prepare as well as possible,” Alonso explained.

Alonso acknowledged ongoing fitness concerns within his squad, particularly in defence, and admitted these issues could influence his final selections.

“They’re better, we’ll train this afternoon and decide. We’re experiencing more instability in defence. Some players are putting in extra effort,” he said, before adding: “But we’re dealing with it. That extra effort will lessen the discomfort and the energy will be good.”

Turning to Vinícius Jr., who has faced a recent goal drought, Alonso spoke about the importance of understanding the forward’s emotional nature and supporting him through the period.

“Every player is different. You have to be intelligent in every situation. Vini is emotional. You have to know how to be there for him,” he said.

“His teammates and the coaching staff make sure he understands. It’s a matter of timing. He’ll be back to his best and he’ll be decisive. We absolutely need him tomorrow.”

Real Madrid now head into the Super Cup final against their historic rivals with Alonso balancing fitness management, tactical risk and psychological readiness as he targets early-season silverware and a confidence boost for the remainder of the campaign.