Xabi Alonso: Real Madrid ready to strengthen squad after PSG defeat

Speaking at a press conference at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, coach Xabi Alonso confirmed Real Madrid will seek new player additions following their comprehensive 4-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup semifinal.

“We haven’t discussed it during the Club World Cup, but from now on we’re open to making improvements,” stated Alonso.

The match also marked the end of Luka Modric’s career with Los Blancos — the Croatian midfielder who will join AC Milan after 13 years of service at the club.

During his Madrid career, the 2018 Ballon d’Or winner accumulated 597 appearances and collected 28 trophies, including six Champions League titles.

“He’s a legend of world football and Real Madrid. He’ll be remembered for many more good things than for the 25 minutes he played today,” added Alonso, who was once Modric’s teammate.

Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois also paid tribute: “Modric always gets a standing ovation, not only from the Madridistas. He’s a great player, a great teammate and we’ll miss him.”