Xabi Alonso Points To Off-Ball Play As Key Area For Vinicius Jr. And Mbappé

Michael

3 min read

Post on Jun 30, 2025

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Xabi Alonso Highlights Off-Ball Movement as Crucial for Vinicius Jr. and Mbappé's Continued Growth

Real Sociedad manager Xabi Alonso has identified a key area for improvement in the games of two of the world's most exciting young forwards: Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappé. While both players possess blistering pace and exceptional dribbling skills, Alonso believes their off-ball movement is crucial for reaching the next level. His comments, made following Real Sociedad's recent victory, have sparked debate among football analysts and fans alike.

The legendary midfielder, known for his tactical awareness and intelligent positioning during his playing days, pointed to the subtle nuances of off-ball runs as a critical element often overlooked in assessing attacking players. He highlighted how mastering this aspect can unlock even greater potential for both Vinicius Jr. and Mbappé, allowing them to exploit defensive weaknesses more effectively.

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Understanding the Importance of Off-Ball Movement

Off-ball movement, often described as the art of intelligent positioning without possession, is a critical component of modern attacking football. It involves anticipating the actions of teammates, identifying spaces in the defense, and making intelligent runs to receive passes or create scoring opportunities. For players like Vinicius Jr. and Mbappé, who are already adept at beating defenders one-on-one, improving their off-ball game could significantly enhance their overall effectiveness.

Vinicius Jr.: Exploiting Space and Timing

Vinicius Jr., the Real Madrid winger, is renowned for his electrifying pace and skillful dribbling. However, Alonso suggests that by improving his off-ball movement, Vinicius can become even more unpredictable and create more chances for himself and his teammates. This involves making timely runs behind the defense, occupying central areas to draw defenders away, and intelligently creating space for others. Improving his awareness of where his teammates are positioned will be key.

Mbappé: Strategic Positioning and Creativity

Kylian Mbappé, the Paris Saint-Germain superstar, shares a similar profile with Vinicius Jr. in terms of raw talent. Alonso's comments suggest that Mbappé, too, could benefit from honing his off-ball movement. By consistently making smart runs, understanding the defensive structure, and creating passing lanes, Mbappé can become even more devastating in front of goal. His already impressive goal-scoring record could reach even greater heights.

The Tactical Mastermind's Perspective

Alonso’s insight is particularly valuable considering his own illustrious career. His understanding of the game's intricate tactical elements provides a unique perspective. His comments underline the importance of tactical discipline and intelligent positioning, even for the most naturally gifted players.

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Conclusion: A Path to Perfection?

While neither Vinicius Jr. nor Mbappé lack individual brilliance, Alonso’s focus on off-ball movement highlights an often-underestimated aspect of their game. By refining this skill, both players can unlock a new level of performance, enhancing their effectiveness and potentially elevating their teams to greater heights. This subtle yet significant improvement could be the key to unlocking their full potential and solidifying their legacies as all-time greats. Only time will tell how both players will react to this expert analysis and integrate these valuable suggestions into their game. What are your thoughts? Share your predictions in the comments below!