"What does he actually see in him?", "We lost already" - Fans slam Xabi Alonso for including Real Madrid star in XI for Rayo Vallecano clash

Real Madrid fans are questioning manager Xabi Alonso's decision to start Brahim Diaz in their La Liga clash against Rayo Vallecano. Many believe that the Spaniard will cost them the game.

Thibaut Courtois keeps his place in goal, with Federico Valverde starting as the right-back. Raul Asencio and Dean Huijsen are the center-backs today, with Alvaro Carreras keeping his place as the left-back.

Edouardo Camavinga partners with Jude Bellingham in the midfield, with Arda Guler offering support. Vinicius Jr and Kylian Mbappe start in the attacking roles as expected, but the inclusion of Brahim Diaz has instigated some fans to call for the sacking of Alonso.

Many posted:

Xabi Alonso spoke about the Rayo Vallecano game, admitting that he is aware of the tough opponents. He added that they are preapring for every game knowing that it will be an intense match and said:

“It’s a demanding visit, Rayo are in good form, we drew there last year… We’re prepared for a very intense match. Every match is the most important. That’s our mentality. In the league, we want to maintain our momentum and finish strong before the break."

Talking about the right-back role, Alonso said that Trent Alexander-Arnold was back in training but is keeping faith in Federico Valverde as the right-back. He heaped praise on the Uruguayan star and said:

"Due to the circumstances, he played at full-back, he did well, we know his attitude and the flexibility he gives us."

Real Madrid are five points clear of Barcelona ahead of kick-off and can extend the lead to eight with a win.

Xabi Alonso sends message to Real Madrid players

Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has urged his players to show consistency after the 1-0 loss to Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League. He believes that there are no complaints about the attitude levels, but believes that they need to avoid dropping levels before the break and said:

“We want to be consistent, but not all matches are the same. I have no complaints whatsoever about my players’ attitude beforehand. We know where we are and what’s coming, we want to finish on a high note before the break, that’s what we want.”

Real Madrid have 10 wins and one loss in their opening 11 La Liga matches this season. They are currently four points clear of second-placed Villarreal, who have played 12 matches, and five clear of fourth-placed Atletico Madrid, who have also played 12 games.

Edited by Sripad