Barcelona Coach Flick Voices Support for Alonso After Real Madrid Exit
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick spoke openly about Xabi Alonso's coaching prospects on Wednesday. This comes just days after Real Madrid decided to replace Alonso with Alvaro Arbeloa at the helm. Flick's comments followed Barcelona's victory over Alonso's Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup final last Sunday.
Flick Praises Alonso's Coaching Talent and Character
"We must move forward and focus on our own improvements," Flick stated during a news conference. He was speaking ahead of Barcelona's Copa del Rey last 16 match against Racing Santander on Thursday. "However, he is a fantastic coach with a great future ahead of him."
Flick emphasized his personal connection with Alonso. "I have a very good relationship with Xabi," the Barcelona coach explained. "We first met when I was the German national team coach and he was at Bayer Leverkusen. We have maintained contact since then."
Alonso's tenure at Real Madrid lasted less than eight months. This followed his remarkable achievement of winning the Bundesliga unbeaten with Bayer Leverkusen in 2024. Despite the short stint, Flick believes the former Liverpool and Bayern Munich midfielder will quickly secure another significant position.
"This is simply how football operates," Flick remarked. "It is not my place to comment on Madrid's decisions. What I can say is that I wish him all the best. I am confident he will soon find a new, substantial project for himself and his team."
Cancelo Set to Feature with Focus on Attacking Quality
Flick also provided updates on Barcelona's squad. He confirmed that new loan signing Joao Cancelo could play against Racing Santander. The second division leaders will host Barcelona in the cup clash.
The coach outlined his plans for the Portuguese defender. "Joao is a fantastic football player with tremendous attacking quality," Flick said. "This is precisely what we need in our team."
Flick explained the tactical reasoning behind Cancelo's potential involvement. "When opponents defend deep in their own territory, we require quality to break them down. Cancelo offers us a good option for that specific challenge."
The Barcelona manager indicated he hopes to utilize Cancelo's offensive capabilities throughout the remainder of the season. This strategic move aims to enhance Barcelona's attacking options during crucial matches.
