Xabi Alonso sets out plan to make Real Madrid players ‘flourish’ in new era

• ‘I want players to play where they are most comfortable’

• Manager reveals plans for Jude Bellingham’s midfield role

The way Xabi Alonso told it, two things have to happen for someone to become Real Madrid coach: “First they have to want you, then you have to want to … and the latter normally does happen,” he said. So there he was at Valdebebas on a Monday afternoon in a classic dark suit and his first day in a new job – just 24 hours – or so he claimed – after he was told it was his.

Alonso’s appointment has been an open secret for weeks but Real had waited until the day before the end of the season to announce the departure of Carlo Ancelotti and until the day after to announce the arrival of his successor. The following morning, there he was, keen to keep up the illusion. Alonso had been able to watch and analyse Real’s games, which must have taken some time, yet asked when he found out, he said: “Yesterday, when I saw the statement. It was evident then. How could I not find out?”

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