David Alaba talks Benzema, Guardiola, Lewandowski to Barcelona

In an interview with Bild (h/t Diario AS), David Alaba opened up about teammates past and present, a move for one of them to their biggest rivals Barcelona, and his former coach Pep Guardiola who he is set to face in new colours.

The Austrian also spoke about the highs and lows of his successful career so far. Real Madrid are set to face Manchester City in the semifinals of the Champions League to vie for a spot in the final in Paris.

The match will see Alaba play against his former Bayern Munich coach Guardiola. On the prospect of facing the Spaniard, he said:

“We haven’t been in contact lately, but it will be good to see him again. We had a great time together at Bayern. But this time the objective is to annoy and beat him.”

Continuing the theme of Bayern Munich, the defender was asked about Robert Lewandowski, his ex-teammate who has been heavily linked with a move to bitter rivals Barcelona in recent weeks.

“It’s his decision and I’m sure he’ll do the right thing. What I can say for sure is that there probably isn’t any defender who would like to play against him,” said the 29-year-old.

Alaba then touched upon the 8-2 win against Barcelona as a Bayern player, which remains one of his fondest career memories alongside the numerous trophies, but also highlighted the semis and final of the 2012 Champions League as his lowest points.

His being booked in the semifinals meant he could not feature in the thrilling final against Chelsea. Alaba then heaped praise on current Madrid teammate Karim Benzema.

The Frenchman has been a talismanic presence for Los Blancos, and has been enjoying the form of his life as Madrid inch closer to the La Liga title.

“Benzema was always a world class striker, but he hit a different level this season. We are all so happy to have him in the team,” Alaba said. He also hoped that Benzema continues to play at this level for a bit more time.