"Happy with the squad, but we must be prepared for changes," says Alonso

Match in Oviedo

It's sure to be a special match for the people of Oviedo, marking their return to the top flight. I'm delighted for them, and I've already congratulated Cazorla. What's more, we're the visitors, and it's a very important match for us after starting at home. The feeling and continued growth away from home will be important. We must be competitive and perform well wherever we play.

Mastantuono

I thought he looked good, he came on and made a good impact and showed good energy. Being in the squad means he has the same chance of playing as everyone else.

Santi Cazorla

I haven't spoken to him because after the match the other day, we started preparing for this one, and I've focused more on the game and ourselves than on social things. But when I see him... I have spectacular memories of Santi, as a player and a teammate. Our first time together was at Euro 2008, and everyone who came brought a good atmosphere to the dressing room. He was and is one of those players. He's respected, loved inside and outside the club, and he's an exceptional player. I remember the first impression I had when I saw him. Now he's back home and enjoying being a role model in Oviedo.

Vinicius, 0 goals and 0 assists in 5 matches

The World Cup context is a little different. For me, we've only played one match, and you have to take statistics with a pinch of salt. They are all important, I'm counting on them, and since there's a squad list, anyone can be important to the team.

Rodrygo

I insist that, for me, the season and my time here start now. It's a different context; we were building the squad. All the decisions about the starting eleven are mine, and I'm the one who assesses them with the coaching staff, and we think about what's best for each match. I speak to many players, and I've spoken to Rodrygo too, of course.

Set pieces

We haven't been able to work on them too much yet, but there are very talented players. Arda, Trent, Franco... Mastantuono takes good corners and direct free kicks, Kylian has taken some... We haven't been able to work on it much yet, but there are plenty of options.

Squad complete?

I'm happy with the squad we have, but we always have to be prepared in case there are any changes. But I'm happy.

Mastantuono's role

He can play both in the last line and as a link. At River he often played as a '10', a bit more of an attacking midfielder, and he settled into the position of winger. He has the quality to play in both, he has mobility, the ability to link up, and he's a player who likes to combine. He doesn't just make his individual play. We'll see from what position, not as a double pivot, but something higher up.