Xabi Alonso boasts after Real Madrid's thrashing at San Mamés: 'It was...'

Real Madrid delivered their best match of the season last night at San Mamés. In a historically hostile setting, Xabi Alonso's team showed overwhelming superiority against an Athletic team that could barely keep up with Los Blancos. The high pressing worked, the team stayed united, and individual quality ultimately tipped the balance in a match that confirms the team's response after several weeks of uncertainty.

Kylian Mbappé once again emerged as Real Madrid's great leader with a historic brace. The Frenchman not only unsettled the opposition all over the field, but he also showed once again why many consider him the best footballer on the planet. With yesterday's two goals, Mbappé has already scored 55 goals during this 2025 (55 goals), putting him just four away from the historic record set by Cristiano Ronaldo in 2013.

Without a doubt, Real Madrid's "10" has carried the team on his back at the most difficult moment of the Xabi Alonso era. The coach was under heavy pressure after recent results and the sense of internal disconnect with some key players. However, the victory at San Mamés not only means three points, but also an emotional boost for a locker room that needed to reconnect with their best collective version.

Xabi Alonso speaks out after the victory

Xabi Alonso, fully aware of what was at stake, didn't hesitate to show pride in the post-match press conference. "It was an important match, I think the team played a very complete game. It was the most well-rounded match we've played in a demanding stadium and at an important moment", he stated with a smile that hadn't been seen in many weeks.

The coach also wanted to justify some decisions that had sparked debate, such as Arda Güler's place on the bench. The Turkish player was coming off great performances, but Xabi Alonso preferred to rest him: "There are a lot of matches. We play every three days and it was a technical decision for today's match", he explained, making it clear that the group's physical management will be key in this stretch of the schedule.

Still, despite the footballing masterclass, Xabi Alonso wanted to send a message of caution to avoid any excess of confidence: "Today is today, we go match by match. After drawing in Girona it was important, but tomorrow we're already thinking about Celta. The schedule is demanding and doesn't let you dwell on things", he concluded.

The win at San Mamés allows Real Madrid to regain confidence and strengthen Xabi Alonso's position. But it also confirms that, with an inspired Mbappé and a committed team, Los Blancos are capable of aiming for absolutely everything this season.