“Things have gone much better” – Real Madrid star delighted with Xabi Alonso impact | OneFootball

Real Madrid have had a strong start to life under Xabi Alonso, with several players having particularly benefitted from the new manager’s arrival – and among them is midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni.

Tchouameni had struggled during stages of the previous campaign, but since Alonso’s arrival, he has looked back to his best. And because of this, he is feeling better than ever, and he spoke on that and his relationship with his head coach at Real Madrid during an interview with Marca.

“I’m happy with him, to be honest. It’s true that things are going well for me with the coach and that he has new ideas for me and for the team, but I think that since the beginning of 2025 things have gone much better for me and with Carlo I was already feeling good. In any case, the idea now is to focus on each game and help my teammates and continue to grow.”

Image via Alamy

Tchouameni was also asked about the key differences between Alonso and his predecessor at Real Madrid, Carlo Ancelotti.

“There are differences between Carlo and Xabi, it’s normal, each one has their idea and their style, but they are two great coaches.”

Tchouameni has seen more midfield action under Alonso

One of the reasons that Tchouameni has thrived under Alonso is that he has operated more in his natural defensive midfield position. During the final season on Ancelotti’s reign, the France international was often utilised as a central defender, which was needed in the circumstances due to injury problems for the likes of Eder Militao, David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger.

Tchouameni is one of the first names on the teamsheet for Alonso, and that confidence has been reflected in his performances at the start of this season. All parties will hope that his strong form continues over the coming months.