New Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso has 'warned' that even Kylian Mbappe must press and fight for every ball ahead of his first game in charge.

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Xabi brings no-nonsense coaching styleMbappe told to chase every ballNew signings Trent & Huijsen set to start debut matchFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?

According to , Alonso has issued a clear message to his Madrid players ahead of their Club World Cup debut against Simone Inzaghi's Al-Hilal – no effort, no play. Even Mbappe is expected to track back and press defenders. The Spaniard is determined to fix Madrid’s inconsistent pressing game from last season and is introducing strict discipline to his squad.

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After a season that lacked defensive consistency, despite trophy wins under Carlo Ancelotti, Alonso wants intensity, organisation and a winning mentality from day one. SER also reported that new signings Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen are set to start, with other stars like Vinicius Jr. and Mbappe also in the XI. But stardom won’t protect anyone from being benched for poor effort.

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The former Leverkusen manager reportedly told the squad: “Whoever saves a run gets a yellow. Do it again, and it’s a red.” Even goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is expected to “run for every ball.” Alonso wants all 11 players to show maximum commitment, regardless of their status or position.

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AFPWHAT NEXT?

Los Blancos face Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal in their Club World Cup opener on June 18. It will be the first real test of Alonso’s high-intensity system and whether the star-studded squad can adapt to a new, demanding style of play.