Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso has urged his players to stay grounded ahead of Saturday’s high-stakes Madrid derby against Atletico at the Metropolitano Stadium.
Los Blancos have enjoyed a flawless start to the season, winning every game and sitting two points clear of Barcelona and nine ahead of ninth-placed Atletico. But Alonso, taking charge of his first Madrid derby, cautioned against overconfidence.
“Every game is very difficult to win… we cannot be overconfident,” Alonso said on Friday. “Just by going on to the pitch it doesn’t mean we are going to win. We have to be consistent and active if we want to keep collecting points.”
Despite growing pressure on Atletico coach Diego Simeone, Alonso hailed the Argentine’s remarkable longevity, noting, “What he has done is so big — I’m just starting, I have to go slowly.”
The Spanish coach confirmed that Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga are fit to start after recovering from injury but gave no clues about his final line-up.
Simeone, whose side were knocked out by Madrid in last season’s Champions League last-16 clash, acknowledged the challenge ahead, citing Real’s improved collective play and high pressing.
With Atletico having one less day of rest, Simeone predicted a “hard-fought game in midfield” where transitions will be key.
The clash promises a charged atmosphere as Real look to maintain their perfect record and Atletico aim to reignite their season.
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