Ancelotti Praises Xabi Alonso: “I Knew He Was the Right Man for Real Madrid”
Former Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has spoken with admiration about his successor, Xabi Alonso, describing him as “the perfect profile for Real Madrid.”
In an interview for the podcast “The Rest is Football,” Ancelotti shared that he had full confidence in Alonso’s abilities long before he took over the club.
“Xabi Alonso is an excellent fit for Real Madrid,” said Ancelotti. “I was sure he would become a great coach, and also the right choice for this club. I wasn’t involved in the decision to appoint him, but I knew he would do well because even as a player, he had an extraordinary understanding of the game. He was a fantastic midfielder.”
Real Madrid appointed Xabi Alonso last summer following Ancelotti’s departure. The Spanish coach earned global attention after an outstanding spell at Bayer Leverkusen, where he led the German side to historic results.
Since taking charge of Real Madrid, Alonso has impressed fans and analysts alike, keeping the club at the top of La Liga with his disciplined tactics and modern approach.
Although his time at the helm is still young, many believe Alonso’s Real Madrid has the potential to reach even greater heights.
Ancelotti expressed pride in seeing his former player thrive:
“It’s special to watch him succeed with the same intelligence and calmness that defined him as a player. He understands Real Madrid’s spirit perfectly.”
With results and performances continuing to impress, Xabi Alonso’s journey as Real Madrid’s coach seems to be just beginning — and he already has the approval of one of football’s greatest managers.
