Kylian Mbappe spearheaded Real Madrid to a 1-0 win over Osasuna last night at the Santiago Bernabeu to give the team their first three league points in the Xabi Alonso era.
Los Blancos were far from their best on the night and did not create many chances from open play. Eventually, the French talisman stepped up and scored from the penalty spot after winning the spot-kick himself to save their blushes.
The Real Madrid management, needless to say, have a lot to reflect on from the result but the struggle is understandable considering the arrival of a new philosophy.
The goalscorer faced the media after the game and shared his thoughts on what was a largely frustrating night for his team.
"It’s the first game of the season and it’s important for us to start with a win at home. We knew it was going to be a tough game, because Osasuna had a clear plan to wait for us to counter-attack. We knew that and we worked on it."
He was also critical of the relatively lacklustre first half the team dished out and what they changed after the break.
"In the first half, we didn’t have much space and we tried to play back and forth. Then we had more chances."
"We scored early in the second half and had more control. We wanted to score the second, but it didn’t happen. We’re happy with the win. We’re positive, but we’re going for more," he added.
Mbappe then revealed what Xabi Alonso demanded of his team behind the scenes and the manager’s ideology.
"He wanted us to have plenty of control of the ball. Playing in the opposition half and from one side to the other to make the other team run and give us space."
"We’ve been working on that all week. There are things we can improve on, because it’s the first game of the season and we’ve just come back from holiday. We’re going to keep improving," he added.
Mbappe’s goal from the penalty spot was crucial for Real Madrid as it sealed the three points for them on the night. On scoring his first goal of the campaign, the forward said,
"I’m feeling good, but the most important thing is to help the team offensively and defensively. The rest will happen and we’ll win games."
The former PSG star also commented on taking the number 10 shirt and what it meant to him to be donning that kit for the first time.
"It’s special, an important number here. I wore the number 9, which was also. I’ve been lucky enough to have two important numbers in two seasons, but the most important thing is to play here, at the Bernabéu, for Real Madrid."
Finally, the star player spoke on how it was to return to the Santiago Bernabeu after the hiatus.
"It’s hot, but it’s great to be back with the fans. It’s always good for us and when we go on the pitch we want to play well for the Madridistas and the people who watch us at home."
Dani Carvajal was the next player to face the media after the game and was relieved to be back on the field after his prolonged injury. He began by reflecting on the result and the three points.
"Getting off to a good start is crucial. We knew how little preparation we’ve had, the team has gone from strength to strength."
"We lacked a bit of depth and we struggled to maintain a high tempo for the whole game, but we didn’t suffer too much," he added.
On the team’s performance on the night and how they adapted to the new tactics, Carvajal said,
"Overall, it was a complete performance. We haven’t had much time with the coach, the important thing was to get the three points and start to get the concepts right."
The player then expressed his happiness on returning from injury after close to a year.
"Today was a very special day for me, from the moment I went out to warm up I felt the warmth of the people."
"I want to thank them for always being here, during these long 318 days. I’m here now and I hope to give them good performances and trophies," he added.
The captain also spoke on how he was feeling after his return to the field, saying,
"Very good, as the coach said. I’m training hard and getting into the rhythm of competition, which will come with the sessions and the minutes."
"I’m delighted to be able to play at home today, where I feel so loved. Now we have to think about Oviedo," he added.
Carvajal is Real Madrid’s first captain for the first time this season and he weighed up the responsibility on his shoulders, saying,
"It’s a reward for many years of work. Having the chance to be the captain of this ship is very important to me."
"I hope I can do it with as much pride as possible but also with a lot of respect for all my teammates and by trying to build a winning team."