Xabi Alonso has had some of the greatest teammates a man could ask for. But there’s one footballer who he wishes he’d played with.
Throughout his illustrious career, the Spaniard proved himself as one of the best midfielders on the planet. He utilised his intelligence in the centre of the park to create innovative moves that saw teams ripped apart at the seams. The visionary playmaker solidified himself as an athlete who could adapt his style to any league in Europe.
Alonso rose to prominence at Liverpool, where he formed a powerful partnership with Steven Gerrard to help win the Champions League. The hardworking player then moved to his homeland and captured his first league title with Real Madrid and a further European Championship with Spain.
In 2017, Alonso concluded his career at Bayern Munich with three Bundesliga triumphs. Furthermore, he has had success internationally, contributing to Spain’s 2008 European Championship and 2010 World Cup victories.
Alonso graced the pitch in the same line-ups as Cristiano Ronaldo, Jamie Carragher and Arjen Robben. But missing out on teaming up with one player still gives him sleepless nights.
Read: Xabi Alonso’s dream 5-a-side team would take some beating.
Who does Xabi Alonso wish he’d played with?
The 40-year-old has achieved everything there is to do in football. Therefore, it’s a surprise that he still harbours one regret. In an interview with FedEx, he revealed that he wished he’d played alongside a French icon.
He said: “For sure, I would have loved to play with Zidane. Because I remember when I started playing in Sociedad, one of my first memories was playing against one of my idols, that was him. And to play against him [Zidane]. It was hard, but it was so enjoyable. And he was like, so elegant. Things look so easy for him. He was such a good player, and I would have loved to play with him. But I played against him.”
Although Alonso didn’t fulfil his dream, hopefully, he can take some solace in having gone to battle versus the captivating sportsman.
What is Xabi Alonso doing now?
Since hanging up his boots, the Spanish sensation has begun a new venture. In 2018, he led Real Madrid Under-14s before moving to Real Sociedad B. In just his second season at the club, he guided his side to promotion to the Segunda Division. This marked their first return to the league since 1961-62.
He’s currently enhancing his managerial skills at his hometown club. But with his footballing IQ considered, perhaps we’ll see him in the Anfield dugout one day.
Featured image credit: Getty
FedEx Interview Credit: Xabi Alonso was speaking on behalf of FedEx, proud sponsors of the UEFA Champions League
