Marcos Alonso has established himself as one of the most pivotal players for Celta Vigo since joining the club after leaving FC Barcelona. The 34-year-old defender, who also has roots at Real Madrid, has seamlessly fit within the squad orchestrated by coach Claudio Giráldez. With 19 appearances so far this La Liga season, 17 of which were as a starter, along with two Copa del Rey matches where he scored once, Alonso has impressed fans and pundits alike with his resilience and skill.
Reflecting on his move to Celta, Alonso shared insights during an interview with Faro de Vigo. "I came from a major injury, having little continuity. I looked for a place where I could have continuity and feel important. From the first moment, Celta conveyed seriousness as a club, and I also wanted to play in Spain. This combination led me here," he explained.
It was not just the club's reputation but also the personal connections he had with team figures like Iago Aspas and Giráldez which influenced his decision. "The first news I have of Celta is a message from Iago, with whom I have had a good friendship for a long time. This was also an important factor to end up here," he remarked. Aspas’ friendship and Giráldez's outreach highlighted the club's genuine interest and support for his return to top form.
During his stint at Celta, Alonso has not only proven to be effective defensively but has also adapted well to Giráldez's three-defender system, showcasing versatility as both a central defender and left-back. His presence has been pivotal, bringing experience and stability to the back line often flanked by fellow defenders Starfelt and Javi Rodríguez.
Alonso's contributions have earned him affection from the fans, particularly after demonstrating his commitment during Copa del Rey matches, including facing Real Madrid. "I will, in principle, continue next year. The clause to renew is close," Alonso said, providing reassurance to supporters who have taken to his performances.
Discussing the team's current position, Alonso noted the significant progress made since the start of the season. "A couple of weeks ago, you would have asked me about survival, and now you are asking about Europe. Let’s see how we are doing in two weeks. We need to continue growing and pushing ourselves. From sixth to sixteenth place, we are separated by only a few points, which means we have to compete," he suggested. This ambition reflects the changing dynamics of the La Liga table, where competition has tightened closer to the European spots.
With Celta Vigo currently sitting just three points from European qualification, the optimism surrounding the team is palpable. Alonso acknowledged the importance of maintaining confidence, stating, "It’s clear this influences our play, but we need to be aware of how fine the margins are. Little details matter.”
Looking forward, Alonso emphasized the necessity for the team to address minor shortcomings, especially away from home. "We’ve played well but have been penalized by details outside our control. We have to be focused for the full 90 minutes, especially against Girona, who have competed strongly this season. It won't be easy," he remarked.
The collective aspirations of Celta Vigo are undeniable, and Alonso’s positional change has injected new life and flexibility to the team. While he admits he previously preferred playing offensively on the left flank, he expressed satisfaction with his central role: "I had played as center-back more often at Barcelona than on the left," he noted. This adaptability has contributed to the growing chemistry between him and the younger squad members, who look up to him as they evolve within the league.
Alonso is aware of his role and the experiences he brings to the younger players at Celta. "The younger players are developing rapidly and need to keep progressing, and it’s valuable for us older players to provide guidance and examples," he shared.
His close connections with the fans and teammates have resulted in team spirit rising, making it important as Celta heads toward the season's final stretch, aiming to deliver more memorable moments to the supporters. With ambitions of qualifying for Europe now seemingly within reach and Alonso communicating his intentions to stay, all eyes are on the veteran to help lead Celta Vigo through the challenges ahead.
Marcos Alonso has rapidly become synonymous with Celta Vigo's resurgence this season, and if his current form continues, he is not just helping the team but also creating personal chapters of success within his own expansive football narrative.