Real Madrid linked Bayer Leverkusen star explains what Alonso is like as a coach – ‘Tactically very strong’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid linked Bayer Leverkusen star explains what Alonso is like as a coach – ‘Tactically very strong’ | OneFootball

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Icon: Madrid Universal

Madrid Universal

·3. Juni 2025

Real Madrid linked Bayer Leverkusen star explains what Alonso is like as a coach – ‘Tactically very strong’

Artikelbild:Real Madrid linked Bayer Leverkusen star explains what Alonso is like as a coach – ‘Tactically very strong’

Alejandro Grimaldo, Bayer Leverkusen’s dynamic left-back, continues to attract attention from Real Madrid, with the club viewing him as a viable Plan B if their pursuit of Alvaro Carreras fails.

While his future remains a topic of speculation, Grimaldo has taken the opportunity to share glowing praise for Xabi Alonso, his former coach who is now at Real Madrid.


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Speaking in a recent interview, Grimaldo did not hold back when discussing Alonso’s coaching acumen. “Xabi is a very versatile coach,” he noted.

“At Leverkusen, he used a back five, but also a back four. He analyzes matches a lot, is tactically very strong, and knows which system to use at any given moment. He’s prepared to do very well,” said the 29-year-old Spaniard.

What can Real Madrid expect from Alonso?

When asked directly what Real Madrid fans can expect from their potential new manager, Grimaldo responded confidently:

“They should expect a highly prepared coach, tactically sound, and with clear ideas. He’ll put the team at the center of everything. Real Madrid made the right choice with him.”

Artikelbild:Real Madrid linked Bayer Leverkusen star explains what Alonso is like as a coach – ‘Tactically very strong’

Alejandro Grimaldo has nothing but praise for Alonso. (Photo by Markus Gilliar/Getty Images)

As for advice to current Madrid players, Grimaldo diplomatically deferred, saying, “I don’t know, the coach is the one who sets the guidelines.

“I know Xabi and I know he’s prepared and knows what he’s doing. I hope he does very well. It’s a big challenge for him.”

Grimaldo: A budget-friendly option

While Grimaldo is not Madrid’s top priority at left-back, he remains a strong candidate , especially if a move for Carreras becomes too complicated or expensive.

Carreras has a release clause of €50 million, while Grimaldo, under contract at Leverkusen until 2027, could reportedly be secured for just €30 million.

That €20 million difference could prove significant as Real Madrid look to strengthen their squad without overspending in a market that’s increasingly inflated.

Grimaldo’s experience under Alonso, combined with his versatility in both back-four and back-five systems, makes him an appealing option, especially for a manager like Alonso who values tactical fluidity.

Source: MARCA

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