Bayer Leverkusen star reveals what Real Madrid can expect from Xabi Alonso – ‘First few weeks will be important'
Bayer Leverkusen star reveals what Real Madrid can expect from Xabi Alonso – 'First few weeks will be important'
Aleix Garcia, the midfielder from Bayer Leverkusen, has once again shared his insights on what Real Madrid fans can expect from their new manager, Xabi Alonso.
Having worked under Alonso, Garcia has a clear understanding of the Spaniard's coaching style and tactical demands.
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When asked about the most valuable lesson he has learned from Alonso, Garcia told AS, 'He focuses on team balance and stability through possession.
'The two central midfielders are key in that system, as they help control the game and keep things flowing.
Garcia praised Alonso for turning him into a more complete player and noted how much the former Real Madrid star values structure.
'Thanks to him, I have become more versatile and understand positioning much better.'
A new approach coming to Real Madrid
Asked if Alonso will change the current playing style at Madrid, Garcia gave a realistic and optimistic answer.
Aleix Garcia has explained what Real Madrid can expect from Xabi Alonso. (Photo by)
'He wants his team to be protagonists with the ball and to dominate the game, and Madrid has been characterised by a very vertical game in recent years.
'Xabi won't want to lose that virtue, which he also enjoyed as a player, but he will try to instil in the players to have more control of the ball.'
Garcia added that the early weeks will be crucial. 'The first few weeks at Madrid will be very important, and he knows how to be very precise in his instructions so that the players know what he wants from them.'
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Lastly, on whether the Real Madrid forwards will be convinced to press more under Alonso, Garcia said with confidence,
'He knows they have to. To win, everyone must contribute. I've spoken with him recently, and he's already thinking about how the attackers will help in defence.
'He won't ask them to press 50 times, but he will expect enough effort to win the ball back and create chances,' he concluded.
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