Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has commented on his rivals, Real Madrid, appointing former Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso as their new manager, replacing Carlo Ancelotti.
The Spaniard was unveiled at a packed press conference, stepping into one of football’s most prestigious roles.
Hansi Flick reacted to the news after his side’s 3-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao. “It wasn’t a surprise, was it?” Flick said with a grin during his post-match press conference.
Alonso, a former Real Madrid midfielder, returns to a league he knows intimately, bringing a philosophy that has already earned widespread admiration. “I spoke with Xabi when he was at Bayer Leverkusen, many times, in fact,” Flick revealed.
“I like his approach. His philosophy is really strong. It’s great to see the success he’s had in Germany, at a very high level with a club like Leverkusen.
“The players have improved so much under him. I’m happy to see him here.”
Alonso’s tenure at Leverkusen saw the German side transformed into Bundesliga champions, with his tactical nous and ability to elevate players like Florian Wirtz and Victor Boniface earning him plaudits across Europe.
Real Madrid, struggling for consistency this season, has pinned their hopes on the 43-year-old to restore their dominance.
The sentiment on X suggests fans are optimistic, though some cautioned that the pressure at Real Madrid far exceeds anything Alonso faced in Germany.
With his deep connection to the club and a proven track record, Alonso’s appointment signals an ambitious new chapter for Real Madrid. Fans will be watching closely as he takes the reins.