Xabi Alonso, the head coach of Real Madrid, appeared at a press conference on the eve of the match against Villarreal in the eighth round of La Liga, tomorrow Saturday, at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.

Alonso said at the beginning of his talk: "We are back to playing at home against a team that is going through a good period both in the league in terms of standings and performance, and in the Champions League where they have shown competitive levels in the last two matches. Tomorrow we need to deliver a high level both collectively and individually, as these matches are important, and they are the last before the upcoming international break.

He added about communication with national teams: "Usually, players are the ones who convey to us the information regarding their national teams. We always keep the door open for any matters concerning national coaches, and this has happened in the past, and I always try to cooperate in the best way possible. The physical staff is also in greater communication in case one of the players arrives with some pain, so they can monitor the loads. We try to have a good relationship, and so far there have been no problems.

Regarding Valverde and his readiness for the match: "Valverde is ready for tomorrow, as we all are. We know how important tomorrow's match is for the team. After the last two matches, we want to finish this phase with a good performance and a victory, and that is what we need.

On his concern about the players and their roles: "We are fortunate that we spend a long time together and talk a lot and correct mistakes. I feel that the team is the most important, and we emphasize that continuously. Every player will be important and will have their chance. It is normal for moments to arise when a player expects to participate and that does not happen, and we must deal with this situation normally. This is not new and will be repeated, and we are calm about it.

He emphasized: "No player has ever come to me, neither Valverde nor Rodrigo nor Vinicius, to say that he does not want to play in a certain position. This has never happened. Everyone wants to play, and if they do not participate, they want to be on the field, and that is natural. They all have a very positive mentality, and I am the one who decides in the end what is best for the team, and I want to clarify that well.

On managing pressure as a coach: "It is completely different. As a coach, you have to manage and make many decisions. The pressure is less in some aspects and more in others. This is the phase I am living now and enjoying it.

He added: "I want the team to play well, with focus, quality, and team spirit. I do not ask anything from the fans; we have to deliver ourselves. We must be proactive in our play because we know that this is the best way to make people enjoy. We want that, and we want to win the match in the way we aspire to.