Xabi Alonso (foto: Getty Images)
Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso hailed former Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz, saying the German playmaker helped him earn his current role as they meet again at Anfield.
Xabi Alonso has spoken warmly about his former player Florian Wirtz, as Real Madrid prepare to face Liverpool at Anfield in the Champions League.
The Spanish coach worked with Wirtz during their historic 2023/24 campaign at Bayer Leverkusen, when Alonso led the club to an undefeated Bundesliga title and a domestic double. Wirtz was at the heart of that success, scoring 18 goals and providing 20 assists across all competitions.
The German international, who tallied 34 goals and 35 assists in his final two seasons with Leverkusen, joined Liverpool this summer for €125 million. However, he is still finding his rhythm in England, registering three assists in 14 matches without a goal so far.
‘He’s special — and he made me a better coach’
Speaking ahead of Madrid’s visit to Anfield, Alonso praised his former protégé while acknowledging his current challenges.
“Coming to Liverpool is a big change for him, and he needs time to adapt,” Alonso said. “He’s a special player — he has quality, character, and great competitiveness. He’s probably the reason I got the Real Madrid job, and I’m very grateful to him.”
The comment reflects the strong bond between the two, forged during Leverkusen’s remarkable rise under Alonso. The coach’s tactical revolution — with Wirtz as its creative core — helped him earn global recognition and ultimately his move to Madrid.
An emotional return to Anfield
For Alonso, the fixture carries extra meaning. The Basque coach spent five years at Liverpool, making 210 appearances for the Reds and winning the Champions League in 2005.
Now, he returns to his former home as a rival — but with memories and respect that run deep.