Luis Enrique Delivers Shocking Verdict on Xabi Alonso While Making Desperate Appeal to Real Madrid

Luis Enrique defended Xabi Alonso following Paris Saint-Germain's commanding 4-0 victory over Real Madrid in the Club World Cup semifinals.

The spotlight was firmly on PSG and Real Madrid as they met at MetLife Stadium with a place in the Club World Cup final at stake. The encounter was expected to deliver an exciting spectacle between these two European powerhouses, but instead became a completely one-sided display from the French titleholders.

PSG excelled in all areas of play, effortlessly netting four goals against Los Blancos while maintaining a shutout. By the final whistle, the Parisians had secured another comprehensive victory.

Following the 4-0 triumph, Enrique discussed with MARCA regarding Alonso's initial period managing the world's most prestigious club.

"I believe Xabi requires time, to develop his methods, to conduct a proper preseason," Enrique stated. "I'm uncertain whether this 4-0 scoreline truly represents the gap between both teams, but these circumstances cannot be compared with his squad, which is only beginning. I have been developing this project for two years already."

Alonso was named Real Madrid's new head coach after Carlo Ancelotti's departure at the conclusion of May. The former Bayer Leverkusen boss had merely two weeks with his new team before they journeyed to the United States and began their Club World Cup participation.

PSG, conversely, entered this summer's expanded competition following their achievement of an unprecedented quadruple that featured the club's maiden Champions League triumph. Enrique's squad carried their exceptional European performance into the Club World Cup, where they have allowed only one goal while netting 16 during their path to the final.

"Xabi [Alonso] has participated in six games. He requires adequate time for a proper preseason. There's no point in assessing it because he hasn't had the opportunity to implement anything. Completely different and incomparable circumstances," Enrique continued.

Alonso shared similar views with the former Barcelona manager after the loss as he shifts focus toward the forthcoming La Liga campaign.

"Today's outcome benefits us by revealing how much improvement we still require. PSG is performing excellently, and we have work remaining. We're operating in a competitive setting, essentially without proper preparation. We need rest now, but we'll return in four weeks."