Overview

• The 5-2 defeat to Atlético was Madrid's first loss of the season and their first time conceding five to their rivals since 1950.
• Defensive availability has tightened with captain Dani Carvajal ruled out for 4–5 weeks with a calf injury and Éder Militão left off the trip after an ankle problem.
• Madrid have traveled over 6,000 kilometers to face Champions League debutants Kairat Almaty, with Alonso rejecting travel as an excuse and emphasizing securing points away.
• Federico Valverde said the squad held extensive talks and must change quickly, adding he is prepared to cover at right-back if needed.
• Spanish outlet COPE reported Alonso is considering tactical tweaks, including a switch to three central defenders and rotation for the Kairat fixture.