Real Madrid manager, Xabi Alonso, has urged his squad not to become complacent ahead of Saturday’s La Liga clash with Atletico Madrid.
Despite Real’s impressive start to the season, Atletico have managed just two wins from six league matches, leaving them nine points behind their city rivals.
However, Alonso insists that such statistics are of little relevance at this early stage.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Alonso emphasized that Los Blancos will approach the game with focus, regardless of Atletico’s shaky start.
“We’ve only played six and got full points, but some games were a real struggle so we can’t get overconfident.
“You can’t think that just by stepping onto the pitch you’ll win because of the badge you wear or the squad we have. I believe the more we educate ourselves to come out switched on for any match at any ground, the more games we’ll win.
“And if we win a lot of games, if we have that natural activation, we can pick up a lot of points. But we mustn’t relax because a lapse can cost you. The standings don’t say much right now.
“Sure, we could extend the lead, but the match is going to be tough, it’s going to be tight. Winning at the Metropolitano isn’t easy, we’re going to have to work for it.”
Alonso’s words underline Real Madrid’s determination to maintain their winning momentum and avoid underestimating their long-time rivals in what promises to be a fiercely contested encounter.
