Xabi Alonso Gives Two-Word Answer When Asked If He Reads What Media Says About Him

Xabi Alonso took to the podium once again, taking questions ahead of the huge La Liga game between Real Madrid and Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabeu.

As a former player and head coach of Bayer Leverkusen, he is accustomed to the media over analyzing situations and starting rumors. As the leading man at Real Madrid, that is always going to be much more intense than only the strong-minded can handle.

The Spaniard has had to deal with that this past week after he decided to leave Federico Valverde out of the starting XI against FC Kairat on September 30. There were numerous accusations aimed at Alonso by the Spanish media, particularly after the 5-2 loss to their rivals, Real Madrid, last weekend.

MORE: Transcript: Xabi Alonso’s Pre-Match Press Conference Ahead of Real Madrid vs Villarreal in La Liga

He was asked in the Villarreal press conference if he reads what the media says about him. His answer was two words, and with the style we have come accustomed to since his arrival.

“Not much.”
Xabi Alonso

Xabi Alonso Focuses On What He Can Control

When he was asked another question about the media and the importance of what they say, he diverted to what he could focus on. Alonso also spoke about being able to handle the outside noise.

“I try to give more importance to what I have control over and what I truly experience and can change, which is what happens in the locker room and during the match. I live with what happens outside, I handle it quite well. It's not the first time and I know it won't be the last. I try to let it affect me as little as possible. I don't wear myself out too much, to be honest.”
Xabi Alonso

👈 @XabiAlonso pic.twitter.com/JBnhJJpJXy
— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) October 2, 2025

Yes, it is a different type of heat from the media when things are not going well for Real Madrid. It's similar to that of the New York teams in various sports; when the results are not positive, the media can be brutal. However, Alonso's personality appears to be very strong-minded and can handle the added pressure from outside.

A win against Villarreal on Saturday before the international break will keep the media quiet for the time being. However, Alonso is more focused on the three points, putting them closer to their goals of winning the La Liga title.

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