Mbappé and Camavinga Rally Support for Coach Alonso Following Champions League Victory

Kylian Mbappé emphasized the need for Real Madrid’s players to “protect” coach Xabi Alonso after their thrilling 4-3 Champions League victory against Olympiacos on Wednesday.

Midfielder Eduardo Camavinga echoed this sentiment, urging the team to “help” the coach in light of recent challenges.

Alonso has faced scrutiny due to three consecutive winless matches, raising concerns about his rapport with key players, including Vinícius Júnior, who has been benched four times this season.

However, following a match where he scored four goals, including a remarkable seven-minute hat trick, Mbappé asserted that the team and coaching staff remain “united,” as evidenced by Vinícius embracing Alonso during the celebrations on the pitch at Karaiskakis Stadium.

“I know people talk a lot on the outside. It’s normal for discussions to arise when you play for Real Madrid,” Mbappé stated. “We must protect our players, the coach, and the staff. Ultimately, we are all in this together.”

Prior to the Olympiacos match, Real Madrid had suffered a 1-0 defeat against Liverpool at Anfield, followed by a 0-0 draw with Rayo Vallecano and a 2-2 draw at Elche in La Liga, with Mbappé struggling to score.

“It was crucial to secure this win,” Mbappé remarked. “We understand that three games without a victory is significant for a team of our stature. There are areas for improvement, undoubtedly… While we don’t oppose outside opinions, we are united, and I know our fans support us.”

Camavinga also voiced his support for Alonso, stating, “We will do everything possible to assist our coach. Winning is the first step in achieving that. The recent games haven’t been our best, it’s true, but we must concentrate on improving the team’s mentality and keep progressing.”

With their victory, Madrid now sits at 12 points, occupying fifth place in the Champions League standings as they prepare to face Manchester City on December 10.

“We are pleased,” midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni added. “Winning this match was essential, especially if we aim to finish in the top eight. We must maintain this momentum, and although perfection is unattainable, it is satisfying to leave with three more points.”