Real Madrid Confidencial Xabi Alonso's message to Ancelotti at his presentation: 'If it weren't for him...'
The new Real Madrid coach did not want to forget his predecessor and mentor, Carlo Ancelotti, in his speech
Xabi Alonso is now officially the new coach of Real Madrid. The coach from Tolosa was presented in Valdebebas and signed a contract until June 2028. During the event, he had a special mention for Carlo Ancelotti, whom he succeeds in the position.
As soon as he began his speech, Alonso wanted to dedicate a few words to his predecessor. “Before I start talking about the new stage, I don't want to stop talking about the stage that has ended. Carlo was my coach, a great person, and a great influence,” he said with emotion.
He added a phrase that made his respect for the Italian coach clear: “Without his mastery, I probably wouldn't be here.”
a transition full of respect and gratitude
Both shared the locker room at Real Madrid, when Ancelotti managed the team between 2013 and 2015. Xabi was a key piece in the midfield and an essential part of the team that won the desired Tenth.
Now, almost a decade later, he takes over on the white bench. “I'm taking over and picking up his legacy with great honor and great pride. I hope I can meet expectations and be up to the task,” he concluded.
Xabi Alonso arrives after a historic season at Bayer Leverkusen, where he won the Bundesliga undefeated and reached the Europa League final. Real Madrid are betting on his leadership, his knowledge of the club, and his vision of the game.
He replaces Ancelotti after a season without major titles, apart from the UEFA Super Cup and the Intercontinental Cup, the new name for the former Club World Cup.
first challenge: the new Club World Cup
The coach from Gipuzkoa will take charge of the team on June 1, with the goal of preparing Real Madrid for the new format of the FIFA Club World Cup, which will be held this summer. The club trust that his project will mark the beginning of a new era of success and continuity.
Xabi Alonso begins his journey with humility, admiration for his predecessor, and a firm determination to be up to the challenge. “If it weren't for him, I probably wouldn't be here,” he said about Ancelotti. A clear message of gratitude to open his new era on the white bench.
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