Real Madrid’s new No. 10 Kylian Mbappe scored the decisive goal in a 1-0 La Liga win over Osasuna. Head coach Xabi Alonso praised the Frenchman’s determination and his desire to inspire team-mates.
In his first La Liga match since replacing Carlo Ancelotti, Alonso guided Madrid to a hard-fought victory. Mbappe, who recently inherited the historic No. 10 shirt from Luka Modric, converted a penalty in the 51st minute.
“You can see that Kylian wants to do even more after this first year where he did great things,” said Alonso, per AFP. “I don’t know if it’s linked to the new number or not, or simply to his desire to win, but he wants to improve individual and collective performance and inspire his team-mates. You can see his desire every day. Today he created those decisive moments that enable us to win matches.”
Mbappe on Wearing the No. 10 Shirt
The French forward spoke about the legacy of Real Madrid’s No. 10 jersey. Legends such as Ferenc Puskas, Luis Figo, Mesut Ozil and Wesley Sneijder have worn it before him.
“It’s special, an important number here,” Mbappe said. “I wore the No. 9, which also was. I’ve been lucky enough to have two important numbers in two seasons, but the most important thing is to play here, at the Bernabeu, for Real Madrid.”
Alonso on Madrid’s Start and Rodrygo Situation
Alonso admitted his side still needs improvement after limited pre-season preparation. He was pleased with the win but highlighted Osasuna’s longer preparation period as a challenge.
He also dismissed speculation around Rodrygo, who remained on the bench. “Rodrygo? Nothing is happening,” Alonso said. “I count on Rodrygo of course. It’s just a game. This was my decision.”
Madrid fans also saw summer signings Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, Alvaro Carreras and Franco Mastantuono make their debuts.
Mbappe, who scored 44 goals last season, said the team was “happy” with the win but stressed “we’re going for more.”
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