Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso appeared at a press conference to discuss tomorrow's match against Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final, which will be held at the Al Inma Stadium in Jeddah.

The coach said: "It's a special match. We wanted to be here ever since we saw the Super Cup on the season schedule. We have been looking forward to training this evening, but this is a final, and we must know how to compete to win. We are ready. What would you say to those who think your team is going through a tough time? This is football. Anything can happen. We are preparing to win, and we are fully confident of that."

He added: "Mbappé's condition? He is much better. Before the start, it was clear that it would be difficult for him to make it to the Atlético match, so we decided not to rush. If we reach the final, and depending on how he feels, he will come and join the team. After today's training, we will have all the information needed to assess whether he will start or play less time."

He continued about the support of Real Madrid fans in Saudi Arabia: "We feel the support, and we can sense it. This happens all over the world, as this is the biggest club in the world. We are grateful and hope to feel this support again tomorrow."

Regarding how to handle Vinícius Júnior's situation: "Every player is different. Vinícius is an emotional player, and we need to be close to him. His teammates and the coaching staff support him well. It's a matter of time, and he will return to his great form and be decisive. We definitely need him tomorrow. Vinícius was decisive in the finals. I hope to see him smiling."

Regarding the risk of involving Mbappé with the possibility of him receiving painkillers: "The risks must be carefully measured. We know what we are playing for, and we make our decisions consciously. We are not acting recklessly; rather, it is a calculated risk."

Regarding not considering Real Madrid as the favorite to win tomorrow: "Anything is possible. We are only focused on what we need to do and how we will play tomorrow's match. Winning the Super Cup won't bring peace of mind; it will be enjoyable, but I don't see it as a relief."

He added regarding the team's defensive situation: "The situation is better. We will train this evening and then make a decision. We are experiencing some defensive instability, and there are players putting in extra effort, but we are managing that. The desire will lessen the pain, and the energy will be good."

Regarding Barcelona having 24 hours more rest than them: "This is how the draw came out and it cannot be changed. We have to make the best use of the time to prepare for the final against a strong team. The mental and emotional aspects are important, in addition to the technical side."

Regarding the importance of limiting Pedri's threat and his opinion on Lamine Yamal: "We know Barcelona well; there are no secrets. We need to deliver a complete performance. There are many influential players, and Pedri is one of them, but there are also other important players. I won't reveal anything new about Yamal; the level he has shown is outstanding. He is a different kind of player. He doesn't affect our preparations. He is a player who can change the course of the match, but the approach remains the same."

He added, "Bentos's return to work with the team? We plan the season based on periods of ups and downs. Our goal is to be in the best condition throughout the season. Injuries sometimes impose different workloads and greater pressure on some players. Bentos is part of this process, and there is excellent cooperation."

Regarding repeating the winning strategy against Barcelona in La Liga: "The answer is similar to what I said before the Atlético match. The Atlético match in La Liga was not a reference point, but we haven't forgotten it. The context might be different now. It will be a game full of different moments, and persuasion and energy will be two crucial factors."

He concluded about his relationship with the players: "Projects develop over time. We have been here for just over four months. We are progressing in terms of football, our emotions, and team spirit. We feel a strong connection with the players. These matches could have a significant impact on what’s to come. The players are committed to the present moment and what lies ahead. The match won’t be decisive, but it will be important."