Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso appeared at a press conference to discuss tomorrow's match against Talavera in the Round of 32 of the Copa del Rey.

The coach said: "We know that the cup is a special tournament. It gives you the chance to play against teams you haven't faced before, but it is also a competition full of surprises. We are approaching the match with the same respect and preparation. We hope to achieve our goal in Talavera; we are ready."

He added: "These days require preparing for the match tactically and physically, but also psychologically. The circumstances are somewhat different from regular matches, and professional, serious, and appropriate preparation will be essential."

Regarding the possibility of Indrik starting: "I don't like giving too many hints to the opponent. Indrik is on the roster; we are not thinking beyond the break. We have the Talavera match first, then Sevilla. We have all the players and want to start tomorrow, and of course, Indrik has a chance to play."

He continued discussing the players' increased commitment: "That's your interpretation. We are always striving for the same goals. We know there are good moments and less good ones, and unity is essential. Relationships develop, and we get to know each other better. We focus on what’s ahead, in the next four days before the break, and we always aim to improve our performance and maintain consistency in everything we do, whether in the locker room or on the field, defensively and offensively... We want to improve in every aspect."

Regarding Mbappé and his statistics: "This matter was not part of the discussions. We always focus on the match and making the best decisions to choose the best lineup for each game, and this will become clear in the next two matches."

He added: "Valdebenas's appearance was good news because it was his first appearance this season. Historically, players who have been in the right place at the right time have taken advantage of the opportunity. The field gives and takes, and those who deserve to play will get the chance. I was very happy for Victor and congratulated him because he helped us win, and I believe there will be more opportunities in the future."

He continued: "The Xavi who arrived in June is not the same now; in essence, yes, but I have learned a lot and changed myself. Players go through the same development regarding training style, the type of coach, decisions, or the way of playing. We are constantly evolving, and the good news is that this evolution is for the better. We have been here for five months, and the road is still long."

Regarding Rodrigo's brilliance: "The news from the last two matches has been fantastic, not just because of the goals, but because of his role as an advanced midfielder and a third forward. He can occupy hard-to-detect positions thanks to his movement and quality in finding space, and he also provides us with defensive balance. His goal against Manchester City was very important, as was the goal in the last match."

Regarding the changes that have occurred in his personality and style, he said: "Everything. As a coach, manager, or in player management, you learn what works, what needs improvement, and what should be adjusted... We are working on that, as are the players. If we are a better team in March than we are now, that will be good news. There will be different phases this season."

He emphasized: "We must be mentally prepared because the circumstances are a bit different. Football is full of surprises, and we don't want any surprises. We want to be reliable, and we will enter the match with a competitive lineup to be able to qualify."

Regarding the Negrira case: "We share the position of the club and the president, and we support it. It is important for football that everyone knows the truth about what happened. It is legitimate for everyone to defend their interests, and when they feel wronged, to raise their voice for what is fair and just."

Regarding the refereeing differences between countries: "There is everything; in every league, there are referees with different personalities, and they all make mistakes. Here, a case has arisen that requires investigation and accountability. What happened is surprising abroad due to the lack of any consequences, so it is important to uncover the truth."

He concluded about the team's stability after the win against Alavés: "The situation before and after the victory remains the same. We maintain good communication, all working together within our roles, with ongoing communication, trust, respect, and ambition to improve performance."