Real Madrid News
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.
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.”
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
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid star Huijsen credits Mourinho for improved form in new season: ‘He supports me a lot’
Real Madrid will be looking to get back to winning ways in LaLiga as they take on Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.
The club are coming on the back of a 1-0 defeat to Real Betis last weekend but did secure a narrow win over Inter Milan in the midweek Champions League fixture.
Heading into this game, Dean Huijsen, who has been showing a lot of promise in these early parts of the season, spoke to the club’s official media about the match ahead and how Real Madrid have been coping with the pressure early on, among other things.
Huijsen on Rayo and his defensive duties
The young centre-back was fully aware of the threat posed by Rayo and praised the opposition.
“We know that Rayo is a good team, and it’s a tough team to face, and we must give our all as we do in all matches to secure the three points, that’s the only thing that matters, and for the Bernabeu to be with us and for us all to be united,” he said.
He also detailed the defensive demands placed on him by the coaching staff led by Jose Mourinho.
“Well, what every coach asks of you: ferocity, intercepting balls, and winning one-on-one duels. He supports me a lot, and I think this helps me greatly, and defending together as a team,” he said.
On the team’s preparations for the fixture, Huijsen offered an insight into their training routine.
“We’re working on some tactics related to the opponent. And well, after that it depends on the day; we might play a mini-match among ourselves or not,” he added.
Huijsen on Mourinho and his fine form
The Spaniard was quick to credit Mourinho, with whom he previously worked at Roma, for his development and current level.
“We’ve known each other for a while, even though we spent a relatively short time together in Rome. He gave me the opportunity to make the real leap into professional football, and I’ll always be grateful to him for that,” Huijsen said.
Reflecting on his own performances, the defender was in confident mood, once again pointing to the influence of his coach and teammates.
“I think I’m in good shape. Well, I think I’m delivering a good level, and I believe that’s thanks to the coach too, as he keeps track of me and takes great care of me.”
“Well, I’m also doing my very best, and I think the teammates are supporting me too, and this is the perfect equation,” he added.
Finally, Huijsen explained how he manages his recovery amid a congested schedule.
“There are a lot of matches, so we need to recover well and stay focused on football, then you have to sleep well. And yes, on the days after the match, I also take a cold shower and a hot shower to recover better,” he concluded.
