Ancelotti Backs Xabi Alonso to Succeed at Real Madrid: “He’s Doing Brilliantly”

Brazil head coach and legendary tactician Carlo Ancelotti has expressed full confidence in Xabi Alonso’s ability to succeed as Real Madrid’s manager, describing him as a visionary who has already stamped his mark on the club.

Alonso, who replaced Ancelotti at the Santiago Bernabéu a few months ago, has made a stunning start to life in charge, guiding Los Blancos to the top of the LaLiga table with an exciting blend of discipline, tactical balance, and attacking flair.

Speaking to Spanish journalist Tomás Roncero, Ancelotti spoke glowingly of his former player and now successor, highlighting Alonso’s football intelligence and leadership qualities.

“Xabi, yes – absolutely. I also had him at Bayern. A player with great vision. I was convinced he’d do well… and he is doing brilliantly,” Ancelotti told AS.

“Obviously, yes. I see a solid team – especially at the back – and very effective up front.
Mbappé is doing great, and Bellingham is back. I think Xabi can succeed without any problem.”

Ancelotti and Alonso share a deep footballing bond that dates back to their time together at Bayern Munich, where Alonso played under the Italian and honed his understanding of top-level management.

Opinion: The Master and His Apprentice – Alonso Is Living Ancelotti’s Legacy, His Own Way

There’s something poetic about this moment in football.
A student once guided by one of the greatest minds in the game is now leading the same club with the same calm authority, intelligence, and humility that once defined his mentor.

Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid isn’t just winning matches — it’s playing with a maturity that mirrors Ancelotti’s philosophy but with a modern twist. Alonso’s tactical setup combines Madrid’s traditional attacking DNA with a new level of structure and pressing intensity reminiscent of his time managing Bayer Leverkusen.

While some doubted whether he was ready for the Madrid hot seat, Alonso’s seamless transition has silenced critics. His ability to command respect in the dressing room — from stars like Kylian Mbappé to Jude Bellingham — speaks volumes of his footballing aura.

For Ancelotti, this is not just praise for a successor; it’s a proud nod from a master watching his apprentice thrive.

If Alonso continues on this trajectory, Real Madrid may have found not just their next great manager — but a man who could define a new golden era at the Bernabéu.