Real Madrid is preparing to make its debut in the Club World Cup, with attention focused on key figures like Dani Ceballos. The Andalusian, accompanied by Dean Huijsen and Brahim Díaz, spoke to the media before the crucial match against Al Hilal. In his statements, Ceballos expressed his excitement about the new era with Xabi Alonso and sent an implicit message to Barcelona.
The new era with Xabi Alonso
Ceballos, who has been a key piece in recent years, highlighted the importance of Xabi Alonso's arrival at Real Madrid. For him, the era with the former Bayern Munich player is an opportunity to grow as a team and improve tactically.
"It's a new era, we're here because of what we've done in Europe. Although we've only had a few training sessions together, the coach generates excitement. We always talk about identity, and that's what he wants to convey," the midfielder said.
The Andalusian also defended Ancelotti's legacy, pointing out that what the Italian has achieved at the club can't be underestimated. Ceballos highlighted the achievements, such as the two Champions League titles and two La Liga titles, and reiterated his respect for the work of his previous coach. However, he showed his optimism about the work Xabi Alonso is doing in his first season in charge, noting that "it's a huge challenge, but we're all here to support him."
A Club World Cup that generates controversy
Regarding the Club World Cup, Ceballos didn't hesitate to defend the importance of the tournament. Amid some criticism that considers it a minor event, the Madrid player was blunt:
"I find it regrettable to disparage a tournament like this. We're here because of what we've done in recent years. If anyone deserves to be here, it's Real Madrid, which has been the most dominant team in Europe in the last decade. Everyone would want to play it."
Ceballos's message was clear, although without mentioning specific names, when referring to the fact that not all teams have the opportunity to play in this tournament. Ceballos gave a nod to Barça: "Not everyone can play in the Club World Cup," referring to the Catalan club, absent from this edition.
The words of the teammates
Dean Huijsen also showed his excitement about the tournament, emphasizing the importance of wearing the Real Madrid jersey. "We're really eager and we're Real Madrid.
We have to win and that's what we want," the defender stated. Regarding Xabi Alonso, Huijsen stressed that the coach "wants to show us his idea, and I think little by little we're learning."
Meanwhile, Brahim Díaz spoke about the first days with Xabi Alonso, highlighting his quality and his ability to convey his experience. "He still has the same quality and the same pass as when he played. He gets in there to play and still looks like just another player, he still had years left to play," Brahim commented.