Real Madrid have already played three games under Xabi Alonso, and, after a lacklustre display in the first game against Al-Hilal, the Merengue team has shown clear signs of change and improvement.
This improvement is clear both on the pitch, where the players have been putting in some exciting performances, and also in the results, as Los Blancos advanced to the knock-out rounds of the FIFA Club World Cup after finishing first in their group.
With these two aspects, the fans would definitely be happy with the beginning of the Alonso era at Real Madrid. However, the players themselves are also already happy with the new coach.
This is quite clear from a report from Diario AS, in which they have shown a video published by the Merengue club. In this video, two key players, Federico Valverde and Jude Bellingham, talk highly of their new coach.
Federico Valverde moved by new coach’s empathy
The Uruguayan is the first to speak, and highlighted how Alonso’s words impacted him after he missed the penalty against Al-Hilal to showcase the Spanish tactician’s man-management skills:
“When I got on the bus back to Miami, it was my brother who sent me everything Xabi Alonso had said. I heard it from him, and it was very special. He’s my coach; he’s a very kind person and has a great way of talking to the players.”
“What draws me to him is his energy for football. He’s going to help us, give us the advice we need, and be there to guide us. And then, considering everything he achieved as a footballer, receiving words from him is always something beautiful.”
Xabi Alonso impresses Jude Bellingham with his energy
Meanwhile, the energy that Valverde mentioned was also highlighted by Bellingham as he spoke about the new coach:
“The way he interacts on the field is very active — he’s always moving, getting involved to see and feel the game better. I think when you see a coach like that, you’re drawn to his energy.”
“For me, as a player — especially as a midfielder like him, who had a great career — it’s contagious. The first two weeks have been really good.”
It is definitely good to see two of the most important players in the team getting along well with the new coach. Hopefully, the other players will also be feeling the same, and Xabi Alonso will write another successful chapter in Real Madrid’s history.
