'In Real Madrid, those who deserve it will play' - Xabi Alonso warns Rodrygo and others

This season, the likes of Rodrygo Goes and some other players have found it difficult to get into the Real Madrid team despite being regulars in the previous season.

Despite this, Alonso has revealed that the Brazilian is still part of his plan at the club despite being linked with a move in the summer.

Here's what the coach had to say on various topics: Was this international break more positive than usual? 'The most important thing is that everyone returned on time and in good health. We had more players here than usual. We are in the process of continuing to solidify certain aspects of our play."

"I want to be optimistic and hope he'll be ready before October. For now, he's not training fully and is avoiding contact. The important thing is that Jude is putting in a great effort in his recovery. Let's see if we can make progress next week."

Will you play with three central defenders again? "We played that way at the Club World Cup because the context then was different from now. We needed a game plan. And it wasn't three central defenders, but a midfielder (Tchouaméni - ed. note) who dropped back there. I haven't forgotten it; we have five central defenders, so because of the players' qualities, we can do it."

"The fact that it hasn't happened in the three La Liga matches so far doesn't mean it won't happen in the future. We have many games ahead of us. **Mbappé was in top form for France, and with Real? Is he the leader?** Kylian is in a very good moment – both football-wise and personally. After his first season, he's now entering his second with great desire, taking on a leadership role. But it shouldn't be just him."

How are the Brazilian players physically, especially those who didn't travel for their national team? "Vinicius Junior didn't go due to suspension. Eder Militão is returning after a long injury, and when he has played, he's been at a higher level. Rodrygo is getting better and better. Endrick is very close to a full recovery."

"I think next time, all four of them won't stay here during the break. **Trent and Carvajal… How do you plan to work with them?** Fortunately, we have healthy competition within the squad. It's the same in other positions, like at center-back or on the wings. Whoever deserves to play will play – that's how it will be all season," as reported by Abola.