Xabi Alonso Thanks ‘Special’ Wirtz for Role in Landing Real Madrid Job
Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has credited Florian Wirtz for playing a key role in his rise to one of world football’s most prestigious jobs — and says he has “no doubts” the German star will soon thrive at Liverpool.
Alonso and Wirtz enjoyed a remarkable 2023/24 campaign together at Bayer Leverkusen, ending Bayern Munich’s 11-year dominance of the Bundesliga by winning a historic league and cup double — all while going unbeaten throughout the season. That success catapulted Alonso to the top of Real Madrid’s shortlist to succeed Carlo Ancelotti earlier this year.
Wirtz, meanwhile, joined Liverpool in a £100 million move last summer, turning down Bayern’s advances. But the 22-year-old has endured a difficult start to life in the Premier League, still searching for his first goal and starting on the bench in three of Liverpool’s last four league matches.
“I have no doubts — it’s just a matter of time,” Alonso said when asked about Wirtz’s form. “It’s a big change for him after so many years in Germany. He needs to adapt, but he’s a really special player.
“He has the quality, the personality, he’s competitive… I have no doubts about Flo. He was so special and one of the reasons I’m here. I’m thankful to him and, hopefully not tomorrow, but soon, we’ll see him show his quality and class.”
Alonso also spoke about another former Liverpool player adapting to new surroundings — Trent Alexander-Arnold, who joined Madrid in the summer but has featured sparingly due to injury and competition from Federico Valverde at right-back.
“He has great qualities,” Alonso said. “It’s a new stage for him — physically, mentally, and professionally. We need to help him reach his best level because he is an exceptional player.”
Madrid are among five teams boasting a perfect record after their first three Champions League matches, while Liverpool sit 10th in the new 36-team group stage, three points off the leaders.
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