Xabi Alonso believes that new Bayern Munich manager Carlo Ancelotti will build on the work done by his predecessor Pep Guardiola.
Pep Guardiola enjoyed a successful stint in Germany with Bayern Munich, winning a number of accolades. However, the Spanish coach failed to win a European title for the Bavarians. Current Bayern midfielder Xabi Alonso said that he is optimistic about working under the Italian for the second time, and has backed him to succeed in Germany.
“Every manager has a his own way of working,” the former Liverpool playmaker said to ESPN.
“Certain details will be different, they have to be. But in the three years with Pep [Guardiola], many players have improved and learned things that will be useful for this year and for years to come. The football knowledge we have built up will stay in the team.
“We are all grateful for what Pep has done for all of us, because we worked with one of the best managers in the game. Now, we have a chance to keep all these good things, with a new manager.”
Alonso said that he doesn’t expect the playing style to change too much and believes the players would stick to similar principles.
“We have worked very hard [on them], we are committed to them. We won’t suddenly become a counterattacking side; we will continue to control most games but with some changes.”
Ancelotti was the manager when Xabi Alonso represented Real Madrid in 2014. It was then when the Los Blancos ousted Guardiola’s Bayern side by a 4-0 scoreline, en-route to La Decima. Alonso believes that the Italian can make them go that extra mile towards the elusive Champions League crown.
“You never know in football. We were amazing in the second leg against Atletico Madrid [this season] but not quite good enough in the first leg. You can’t always control these things. In the Champions League, you always need a moment of luck [to win it]. All you can do is control [the quality of] the work you do. We will do that.
“Carlo is all about football: He has the skills and the knowledge to fulfill expectations that could not be higher,” Alonso suggested.
The former Spanish international also spoke about the upcoming tour of the United States. Top sides like Milan, Internazionale, and his former club Real Madrid will all be in action.
“It’s a fun thing to do, to take on big teams in big cities,” Alonso said. “And it’s good to bring football closer to the American fans, as the game is getting bigger and bigger there.”
Alonso may also manage former clubs Liverpool or Real Madrid, as he refused to rule out a transition from player to coach.
“I could see it happen at some point.
“I like to think about football and to understand it. Time will tell. I’m not thinking about that phase yet, only about playing and trying to enjoy and compete at the highest level. That’s why I’m here.”
