Xabi Alonso pegs key forward to deliver in high-stakes Madrid derby

Chirag Sharatkumar

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Xabi Alonso pegs key forward to deliver in high-stakes Madrid derby image

Real Madrid’s start to life under Xabi Alonso could hardly have gone better.

Six wins from six in La Liga and a return to their trademark dominance have them sitting at the top of the table, two points ahead of defending champions Barcelona.

But Madrid’s first true big challenge of the season now awaits in the form of this weekend’s Madrid derby.

And ahead of Saturday’s (September 27) clash with Atletico Madrid at the Estadio Metropolitano, Alonso has predicted one player in particular to rise to the occasion.

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Alonso backs Vinicius to fire

Vinicius Jr endured a turbulent start to the season, having flattered to deceive in Madrid’s opening matches while also being dropped to the bench for their Champions League curtain-raiser last week.

Alonso also had to publicly refute rumors of tension between him and the Brazilian forward following their win over Olympique Marseille.

But Vinicius has seemingly silenced all doubts in emphatic fashion, opening the scoring in Madrid’s 4-1 win over Levante to maintain his side’s perfect start.

And Alonso has now stated that he believes the 24-year-old will be fundamental if Madrid are to take all three points from Atleti.

It will certainly not be easy for Vinicius, whose form and temperament will be tested again at the Metropolitano, where he was subjected to racist abuse two years ago.

“We must not move away from what has happened, but we have to be prepared,” Alonso said on match-eve. “We have our weapons, and Vini is fundamental for us. 

“I liked the things he did the other day; I like to see him smile. And for us, the preparation is going to be the same.”

Madrid receive big midfield boost

Los Blancos have also been boosted by the return of Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga, who have both recovered from injury.

“Both Jude and Camavinga could play, like all those in the squad. They can both play from the start,” Alonso added.

“Jude is an attacking midfielder. He can both participate in the build-up and finish moves. He has that ability to cover a lot of the field.”

Madrid currently hold a two-point lead over Barcelona and sit nine clear of Diego Simeone’s Atletico side.

Should they win on Saturday, Alonso would equal the club’s best-ever start to a La Liga season since 1987–88 under Leo Beenhakker.

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Chirag Sharatkumar

Chirag Sharatkumar is a freelance writer for The Sporting News, with a focus on the Premier League, international football, and global fan culture. He also has extensive experience with the Stats Perform news agency and is a keen long-form sport and culture writer and storyteller. His work can be found on the pages of MUNDIAL Magazine and across various Substack platforms.