In a recent farewell interview that captured the attention of the football world, Xabi Alonso, newly appointed Real Madrid manager, took a moment to praise Barcelona’s teenage sensation, Lamine Yamal.
The 17-year-old has been making waves in La Liga, and Alonso’s comments have set the stage for what promises to be an intriguing chapter in the storied rivalry between Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Alonso’s remarks came shortly after Bayer Leverkusen’s 2-2 draw with Mainz 05, a match that marked the end of his successful tenure in Germany. While reflecting on his time with Leverkusen, Alonso used the opportunity to express genuine admiration for Yamal, a gesture rarely seen between figures on opposite sides of Spain’s fiercest football rivalry. “Lamine Yamal is special,” Alonso stated, highlighting the youngster’s vision and match-winning abilities.
Alonso specifically mentioned Yamal’s performance against Espanyol, describing him as a player capable of challenging even Real Madrid.
This unexpected praise demonstrates Alonso’s fairness and willingness to recognize talent beyond club loyalties. As Alonso prepares to replace Carlo Ancelotti, who is set to manage Brazil’s national team, his acknowledgment of Yamal signals a new era for El Clásico — one shaped by youthful brilliance both on the pitch and in the dugout.
Alonso’s time at Bayer Leverkusen has been nothing short of remarkable. When he arrived in October 2022, the club was struggling near the bottom of the Bundesliga. Under his leadership, however, Leverkusen rose to unprecedented heights, winning the Bundesliga title in the 2023–24 season, lifting the DFB-Pokal, and becoming a formidable presence in the Champions League.
Reflecting on his tenure, Alonso described the journey as intense but rewarding, proud of the team’s achievements in both domestic and European competitions.
Confirming that the Mainz match was his final appearance as Leverkusen manager, Alonso expressed heartfelt gratitude to the club and its supporters, declaring it was time to embrace a new challenge at Real Madrid.
Reports from Spanish media outlets Marca and ESPN confirmed Alonso’s three-year deal with the club, with his first major task set for June’s Club World Cup in the United States.
Although Alonso remained tight-lipped about Real Madrid’s transfer plans, insiders suggest potential moves for players like Trent Alexander-Arnold. Notably, Alonso’s public recognition of Yamal highlights the teenager’s growing influence in European football, adding a fresh, respectful dimension to the famous Madrid–Barcelona rivalry.
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