Former Germany coach Jurgen Klinsmann has expressed concerns about Real Madrid‘s defensive capabilities, particularly with the duo of Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior on the team.
In an interview with Marca, Klinsmann questioned whether manager Xabi Alonso can successfully get both players to work harder defensively when the team is not in possession.
According to Klinsmann, teams with exceptional talent like Lionel Messi’s can afford to defend with fewer players, but Real Madrid’s situation is different. “Teams with Messi are the only ones that can afford to defend with just 10,” he said. “Even Real Madrid are trying to get Mbappé and Vinicius to drop back to defend… Am I convinced that Xabi Alonso will achieve it? No, really (laughs).”
Klinsmann highlighted the challenges Alonso may face in managing the personalities and playing styles of Mbappe and Vinicius. “Mbappé is no longer a child and Vinicius sees that they don’t defend either… and he doesn’t do much either,” he said. “But they are two personalities that Xabi has to manage, and I’m sure the team will manage to compensate for everything and get the best out of both of them.”
The German tactician drew parallels with other teams that have struggled to integrate star players into their systems, citing Paris Saint-Germain’s experience with Neymar, Mbappé, and Messi.
“At PSG, for example, it didn’t work out those two years with Neymar, Mbappé, Messi… At River the same thing is happening with Franco Mastantuono,” he said. “They are also trying to integrate him into the system, because he doesn’t do much in defence either… But yes, I agree that it will be hard for Xabi to get both of them to defend more.”
Meanwhile, Alonso has emphasized the importance of teamwork and defensive responsibility. “What I am certain of is that we need and want everyone to defend – the 11 players on the pitch have to be involved defensively,” he said. Vinicius Junior’s recent performances have shown promise, with Alonso praising his work ethic and defensive contributions in a recent game against Salzburg.
As Real Madrid prepares to face Juventus, the team will be looking to capitalize on Vinicius’s improved form and Mbappe’s impending return from illness. With the right strategy and teamwork, Alonso may be able to mitigate the defensive concerns and lead the team to success.