Xabi Alonso: "I want people to get behind the team and like what they see"

Xabi Alonso gave his first interview as Real Madrid coach on Realmadrid TV. The newly appointed manager appeared happy: "It's always been on my mind. Obviously, you have to earn it and work hard for the opportunity to come, but I knew that after playing here, my connection was still very strong, and I had to follow my path to have the chance to be here. I'm very happy, it's a dream and a new stage that we're starting, and we want to get off to a good start."

What does Real Madrid mean to you?
"The best. For someone who loves football, Real Madrid is the best, because of how big it is, because of its history, because of the present we have, and because of the ambition and excellence we strive for. It always pushes you to try to improve, to give a little more, and then there's the feeling that exists all over the world. I've been in different places, I can be in Spain or abroad, and there are always Real Madrid fans all over the world, and that helps a lot to create a common feeling."

15 European Cups
"It's the history that has made this club great, and that's why, year after year, it generates the passion and emotions we want, which is the beauty of football. But it also means the wonderful challenge of being here to try to win more."

The president
"He's someone who has known how to take Real Madrid to where we are today. He's had the vision, intelligence, and ability to bring people together and make important decisions. It's very inspiring to have Florentino as president. You see that he's driving the club forward and that, under his vision, the club is heading in the right direction. Everyone who is part of the club has to contribute. He's the key figure at this club."

His beginnings in the youth academy
"It was my first experience as a coach, and you get to know yourself. I remember the lads I started with very well, and I'm fond of them. I'll probably see some of them again soon. I still have some of that energy, passion, desire, and love for the game. I try to convey that to the players, but I've also gained experience as a coach, at Real Sociedad's reserve team and Leverkusen, three years at each, and they were good years."

"I've come here hoping to enjoy the same things we've enjoyed up until now, and I'm sure that will be the case because the squad is top class. I'm going to try to get everyone together to build a team, something we can be proud of and generate excitement. I want the fans to get behind the team and enjoy what they see, and then we'll celebrate and win titles."

His time as a Real Madrid player
"I'm still in close contact with those people. Those were very intense years. The club needed a boost on a competitive level. Then we won La Décima, which was the culmination of a process that had been difficult, and that's why it felt so good. Since then, the club has remained in a very good place for years, which is the difficult part, and now it's time to start again."

A message for madridistas
"Madridistas, I'm delighted to see you again, and to be back at the club. The bond has always been there, but now from the inside I'm very excited and energised so that we can all be proud of the team, enjoy ourselves, and celebrate great things. Hala Madrid!"

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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