Xabi Alonso said Real Madrid needed to be “self-critical” but also “calculated” in its reaction after the goalless draw with Rayo Vallecano on Sunday.
Real Madrid struggled in the La Liga draw in Vallecas, which followed their 1-0 defeat to Liverpool in the Champions League in midweek.
Alonso’s team remains at the top of the league with 31 points from 12 matches, while rivals Barcelona visit Celta Vigo later on Sunday.
“We were ready for a difficult match,” Alonso said in his post-match press conference. “It was always difficult for us (at Vallecas). Rayo asks you a lot. He takes you to a place where the matches are at a frenetic pace.”
Real have only dropped points twice in La Liga this season: in their 5-2 derby defeat to Atletico Madrid, and in their draw with Rayo. “We want to be stable in our preparations and in our mentality,” Alonso said.
“The league is going game by game… I’m concerned about continuing to grow and improve and self-criticize in a positive and constructive way.
“We’re still in November, there’s still a long way to go. We have to be demanding of ourselves, but also thoughtful.”
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Madrid beat Barcelona 2-1 classic last month, but they have faced criticism since then, especially in the wake of their performance at Anfield.
“We know where we are,” Alonso said when asked if he was worried about talking about a “crisis.”
“In the good moments and the bad moments, you have to know how to find the balance. It’s a long season.”
With Dani Carvajal sidelined through injury, Trent Alexander-Arnold was expected to start at right-back for Vallecas, but he was instead restricted to a late substitute appearance, with Federico Valverde preferred instead.
“Trent, after the injury, needs more time,” Alonso said. “Now after the international break he will be able to prepare well for what is to come.”
