Xabi Alonso: “Gonzalo has had the game of his dreams”

Real Madrid coach hails hat-trick hero after emphatic 5–1 win over Real Betis

Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso was full of praise for academy forward Gonzalo García following Los Blancos’ commanding 5–1 victory over Real Betis at the Santiago Bernabéu.

García stole the spotlight with a sensational hat-trick, and Alonso described the performance as a dream moment for the young striker.

“Evidently, Gonzalo has had the game of his dreams. Playing at the Bernabéu and scoring a hat-trick in your first season with the first team,” Alonso said.
“I’m delighted for him. He works so hard and has an impressive attitude, whether he’s playing or not. He’s a great example of what our youth academy represents. I congratulate him and encourage him to keep going like this.”

On Vinícius Júnior and the whistles

Alonso also addressed the reaction of some fans towards Vinícius Júnior, insisting the Brazilian remains vital to the team.

“I think Vini contributed a lot. He caused problems, got their right-back booked, insisted throughout and helped the team. I really liked what he gave us,” he said.
“He’s fundamental for us, especially looking ahead to the Super Cup against Atlético. He will be very important.”

Later, Alonso added:

“We understand moments. Vinícius is mature, and so are we. We support each other and give our best to respond. He has been, is, and will continue to be fundamental for Real Madrid. When we return from Arabia, I’m sure the Bernabéu will applaud him.”

Historic night for the academy

The win marked the first time since 1989 that Real Madrid scored five goals in a single game through youth-team players — a statistic Alonso welcomed warmly.

“That’s a great stat and very good news. It shows that whoever deserves their chance will get it,” he said.
“When you step onto the pitch, it’s because of your work and attitude. I’m delighted for them. It was a deserved win at home, especially after how we finished the year. We’re calm, but we have good feelings heading into the Super Cup.”

Gonzalo’s defensive work

Alonso highlighted that García’s impact went beyond goals.

“Modern football demands teamwork, especially from strikers. You have to press high, drop deep, and block passing lanes,” he explained.
“Gonzalo does that very well. He accelerates, presses, and scores goals. When you add that defensive contribution, it improves the team’s balance.”

On Eduardo Camavinga and squad balance

Speaking about Eduardo Camavinga, Alonso stressed the importance of continuity and balance in midfield.

“We need everyone. Eduardo has had moments without much continuity, but he has the quality and dynamism to break lines from midfield,” he said.
“We need that balance with Aurélien and Tchouaméni as well. Rodrygo too — on the right, left, or in the middle. We need him at his best, and he played a great game. We’re just starting the year.”

Mbappé, Super Cup focus, and team selection

On Kylian Mbappé’s fitness, Alonso remained cautiously optimistic:

“He’s not ruled out. We’ll wait until Tuesday when we travel and see how he’s feeling.”

Looking ahead to upcoming competitions, he added:

“We have to win a lot of games. This was the last match of the first half of the season. Now the schedule becomes intense, and from tomorrow we’ll start focusing on the Super Cup.”

Regarding his attacking choices:

“It’s my decision. There are many games ahead, different moments and options. We won’t rule anything out.”

On Tchouaméni and Courtois

Alonso confirmed Aurélien Tchouaméni will travel with the squad to Saudi Arabia and praised Thibaut Courtois for his all-round contribution.

“A goalkeeper’s contribution is crucial today. Thibaut understands the game very well and how to participate with his feet,” he said.
“We work on it a lot with him, and he enjoys that role.”

Real Madrid now turn their attention to the Spanish Super Cup, buoyed by strong performances, emerging youth talent, and renewed confidence heading into the second half of the season.