Real Madrid\'s squad has responded positively to Xabi Alonso\'s appointment, with sources reporting significant optimism and motivation among players despite ongoing challenges at their Club World Cup training camp.
A source close to one Madrid player told The Athletic that Alonso\'s impact has been immediate. The new manager\'s modern approach has energized the team after a difficult period marked by injuries and disappointing results.
\"There\'s a lot of optimism and motivation, the positive message from the new \'mister\' (manager) has gone down well.\"
Alonso faces multiple challenges as he prepares the squad in Florida. The situation of veteran fitness coach Antonio Pintus remains unresolved after his methods faced scrutiny during this season\'s injury crisis.
Madrid\'s hierarchy, led by president Florentino Perez, wants the 62-year-old Pintus to stay despite questions about his compatibility with Alonso\'s fresh approach. Training conditions at their Palm Beach base have been complicated by intense heat and basic facilities.
Staff scrambled to install temporary dressing rooms, air-conditioned tents, ice baths, and mobile showers at The Gardens North County District Park before the squad\'s arrival. Concerns exist about whether star players Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, and Vinicius Jr. will be motivated for potentially an extra month of games.
Group opponents Al Hilal, Pachuca, and Salzburg hope to exploit any reluctance from Madrid\'s galacticos. However, the positive response to Alonso\'s leadership, combined with new signings Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen, suggests the team is ready for revitalization after recent struggles.