This is the first big test, the first real shock for Xabi Alonso as a Real Madrid coach. This Saturday, his team, which is at the head of the Liga with a perfect start to the season, moves on the lawn of its rival, Atlético, for a derby that smells powder. At the heart of attentions, as always, will be Vinicius Júnior, systematically targeted by opposing supporters. While many were waiting to know how the new coach had ” protect “
His star, Xabi Alonso took everyone on the wrong conference with a daring psychological approach.
“Do not go away”: Alonso's inverted psychology
Asked about the need to speak to Vinicius to help him
“Escape” From the hostile atmosphere, the Basque coach's response was surprising. Far from advocating isolation or indifference, he suggested the opposite. “We must not move away from what happened. We must be prepared. For the weapons we have, “ he said. One way of saying: let us not ignore hostility, but let's use it, return it against our opponents. Advice which is similar to an inverted psychology strategy, aimed at transforming negative pressure into a source of motivation.
“Do not go away”: the crazy council of Alonso in Vinicius before the derby
A “smiling” and “fundamental” vini, the key to the match?
Xabi Alonso does not want a vinicius who is undergoing, but a vinicius that is expressed. He also insisted on the positive attitude he expects from his player, based on his recent performances: “I liked the things he did the other day, I like to see him smile. »» For him, the Brazilian is a major asset that the team cannot happen:
“Vini is fundamental for us. »» The message is clear: rather than hiding, Vinicius must answer on the ground, with his football and his smile, to show that he is above provocations.
Humility and respect before his first derby
This bold approach is part of a global discourse full of calm and respect. For his first derby on the bench, Alonso welcomed the work of his counterpart, Diego Simeone (“What Simeone did (…) These years is very important”), while remaining humble on his own journey (“Me, I start, I like to go little by little”). He recognized the “powerful atmosphere” of the Metropolitano, but presented it as a pleasure for the players (“a pleasant environment, of those that we like to play”). A serenity he intends to transmit to his group.
Fire baptism for the Alonso method
In conclusion, Xabi Alonso sent a strong message before his first big shock at the head of Real Madrid. His management of the “Vinicius case” is revealing of his philosophy: not to undergo, but to use each element, even hostile, as a force. This surprising advice is an immense mark of confidence towards his player, encouraging him to transform the pressure into performance. This derby will therefore be the first big baptism of fire for this daring method. It remains to be seen if a “smiling” vinicius will be able, as his coach wishes, to make the hell of the Metropolitano his playground.
