Portuguese coach and Barça’s Lewandowski agree on Florentino Pérez’s choice
José Mourinho has backed Real Madrid’s appointment of Xabi Alonso, calling it the right move by club president Florentino Pérez. The Fenerbahçe manager, who led Madrid between 2010 and 2013, praised his former midfielder in an interview with Sporty Net.
“Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid? I think it’s a good choice by president Florentino Pérez. I hope things go well,” Mourinho said.
Lewandowski Joins the Praise
Even Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski put rivalry aside to praise Alonso, suggesting the Spaniard has the potential to become the best coach in the world.
From Real Sociedad to Madrid Glory
Alonso’s coaching career began at Real Sociedad B, before moving to Bayer Leverkusen in 2022. There, he crafted a high-pressing, efficient system that delivered a Bundesliga, German Cup, and Super Cup treble. Working with stars like Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Granit Xhaka, he built a reputation as one of Europe’s brightest minds.
A New Era at the Bernabéu
Now at Real Madrid, Alonso has already overseen six matches at the Club World Cup, where he began implementing his style and integrating new signings such as Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen.
His first La Liga match in charge is against Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabéu, a debut that has generated huge anticipation among Madrid fans. Alexander-Arnold himself admitted to feeling “nervous” before stepping onto the pitch in front of the Madrid crowd.
