Real Madrid's new manager, Xabi Alonso, just arrived and held his first press meet, which has instilled a sense of confidence among Madrid fans. The manager's plan for the squad appears good based on his statements, and the future appears to be bright.
But one Bayer Leverkusen player, who was also an essential part of Alonso's game in Germany, has issued some warnings to Los Blancos attackers that they should be aware of if they want to be in Alonso's good books.
Aleix Garcia, a Bayer Leverkusen midfielder, recently spoke with Cadena Ser and was asked about Alonso's stance on forward availability in pressing or defending.
In response, the player said: "If Mbappé saves himself a run, I don't know how Xabi will handle it, but he'll definitely put it in after the match. He wants all the players to run and be involved in defense. Speaking with him, I know he wants to try to involve the attacking players, especially to make that effort, a minimum, so that those behind have an easier time recovering the ball."
Garcia's point highlights one of the main problems with Real Madrid's front line
While it is true that Real Madrid's front line has been impressive this season, particularly Kylian Mbappe, who won the European Golden Boot in his debut season, it is undeniable that these players have a lot of room for development.
Vinicius Jr, Kylian Mbappe, Endrick, and others struggled this season to protect the ball, push the opponent to lose control, and apply pressure to the ball in general.
A football team's front line is always the first line of defense, and Garcia's statements indicate that Xabi Alonso strongly believes in this philosophy.
Los Blancos performed poorly defensively this season, and the impediment can be greatly reduced if the front line tracks back and contributes to, as Garcia stated, making the defenders' job easier.
It is admirable that Xabi prefers to have his strikers contribute in defense, and Kylian Mbappe and others will have to fall in line to meet the manager's expectations.
Following Carlo Ancelotti's departure, Alonso appears to be the new ray of optimism, with a good plan in place to help the club excel. The players only need to do what he asks. It's impossible to refute that his methods have been proven.