Alonso: Mbappé Scored the First Penalty; I Hope He Takes the Second One Too

Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso attended a press conference after his team's victory over Valencia.

He expressed satisfaction with the team's overall performance but also hinted at dissatisfaction with issues regarding penalty takers. Alonso emphasized twice in his response: "Mbappé is the first-choice penalty taker." When commenting on Vinícius' performance in the game, he only said briefly: "He played well." This was the shortest response in the entire press conference.

On Mbappé's Performance and Vinícius Taking the Penalty

"He scored two goals, which is excellent data and will help in the race for the top scorer at the end of the season. Meanwhile, the team took three points, which is also crucial for the title race. We are in good form, full of energy, and kept a clean sheet, which makes me very happy. The team passed the ball smoothly, pressed to win back possession quickly, and after taking the lead, we controlled the game well and created more scoring opportunities. It was a very complete match."

Early Substitutions

"The effect was very good. In the second half, considering Tuesday's game, we managed the players' playing time reasonably. At that time, we were in control of the game and leading, so we needed to be smart. We did well in many aspects, but we can't relax; we must be mentally prepared for every game. Now we need to focus on the Champions League, start preparing for Liverpool tomorrow, and then face Rayo Vallecano next Sunday."

Anger Over Vinícius Taking the Penalty

"I was angry because the penalty wasn't scored. It was just before halftime, and scoring it would have made it 3-0. Fortunately, Bellingham scored soon after. The anger was just about that moment, nothing more."

Designated Penalty Takers

"Mbappé isn't the only taker, but we have an order, and Mbappé is first in line. Decisions can be made on the pitch afterward. I hope penalties are scored because they are great scoring opportunities. Mbappé scored the first one, and I hope he takes the second one too. For now, the first-choice penalty taker is still Mbappé."

Valverde's Performance

"Everyone can see clearly that his form and performance are very comprehensive. He has the agility of a midfielder when in possession, and great strength in defense. His level is continuously improving, and his understanding of this position is getting deeper. He is an all-round, complete player. He is playing this position based on the team's needs and doing very well."

Evaluation of Vinícius' Performance in the Game

"He played well."

Mbappé's Goalscoring Efficiency

"Time will tell. Predicting data for the next six months from now is just speculation. But he does have the ability to appear in the right positions and score goals easily. He will score many goals this season, but I don't know the exact number."

Bellingham's Position

"One thing is where he stands; another is planning how he gets there. We need him in efficient, threatening areas. Today, his goal came from a position that suits him, and we are training on how to get him there. He is most decisive when he is in the positions we need. Of course, sometimes he can drop back to organize because he has that ability. Today we found him well."

Defensive Stability

"It's impossible to rely on the same defensive line all season. The most important thing is a clear defensive concept. We have a flexible defense. Alaba will return soon, and Rüdiger will be back in the next phase, which provides competition and tactical quality improvement for us. The key is clear concepts, high focus, and mental preparation."

No Open Training at Anfield

"Yes, that's my decision. Because we need to prepare for the game, and I prefer to train at our own base so that we won't be surrounded by 200 cameras."