Xabi Alonso spoke to the media ahead of Real Madridโs Champions League clash with Juventus. Offering some intriguing insight, he addressed current form, star quality and asserted that beating the Bianconeri wonโt come easy.
โJuventus is a great team,โ The former Liverpool, Bayern Munich and Merengue star began, โThis match is a European club classic. Juventus is one of the teams that have made European football great.โ
The manager then quickly highlighted the importance of the home faithful at the Santiago Bernabeu. โOur team wants a third Champions League win, and we need the support of our fans. We want them to have fun, and weโll give everything for them.โ
While his previous estimations run parallel with the lofty benchmark for the Juventus of yesteryear, Alonsoโs understanding of the Old Ladyโs legendary status looms heavily over the Turin clubโs current run of form. The 43-year-old Spaniard addressed their whether he saw their 2-0 defeat last time out against Como.
โYes, Juve changed a bit, but Como played a great match thanks to Fabregasโ preparation. Nico Paz has been doing very well for two years, and itโs early for the transfer market.โ
Although likely understanding that his side should arrive as favourites, Alonso quickly assured that Juventus will be prepared to put up a fight โ especially if early-season star Kenan Yildiz plays well.
โUntil three weeks ago, they were playing very well, especially against Inter. We have to be careful because the Italian teams are dangerous, and Juve will be angry. We mustnโt forget Juveโs history. Yildiz has had incredible growth with Juve and Turkey. Iโve known him since his time at Bayern Munich, and Iโm happy for him.
โJuve is a very talented team that changes rotations. They also have players who know how to play the ball well and, above all, are capable of disrupting the game. We have to work to bring the game in our favour.โ
GIFNย |ย Max Bradfield
