Former Liverpool, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich star Xabi Alonso has picked out his dream 5-a-side lineup and it features some stellar talent from down the years.
During an illustrious career, Alonso played alongside some of the greatest names from around the globe. One of the familiar faces he spent time with at Liverpool, was none other than Jamie Carragher.
The midfielder was reunited with his old teammate when appearing on Carragher’s podcast, The Greatest Game.
In one segment of the episode, Alonso was asked to pick five names to complete his side; one goalkeeper, one defender, two midfielders and an attacker.
In goal, he opted for his old Bayern Munich colleague, Manuel Neur. Alonso cited his composure and lack of nerves as being some of his key attributes that set him apart.
“He’s got all the superpowers to reach far, to have that composure, to read the game, understanding the space, good in the air, he has a big personality and he doesn’t get nervous.” He told Carragher.
Another former teammate made the cut in defence, with Real Madrid’s Sergio Ramos being chosen at the back.
“He’s been my team-mate for years in the national team, he’s won everything, record caps for Spain, four Champions Leagues, a World Cup, two Euros. He’s one of the best central defenders in the world, in history.” Alonso explained.
In the centre, the Spaniard picked a fearsome duo of Zinedine Zidane and Diego Maradona.
Zidane was in there due to his “dancing on the pitch” while Alonso described Maradona as “football’s Mohammed Ali”.
Rounding off his picks was Ronaldo Nazario, who remains widely regarded as one of the best attackers to play the game.
“‘I was so young and he had such a big impact on me when I was 16 or 17 watching football.”Alonso said of the Brazilian.
“Later I have been closer to players like Cristiano [Ronaldo] or [Lionel] Messi but he’s always on my mind.”
Alonso is now coaching Real Sociedad B, where he began his career. Last month he was heavily rumoured to be taking over at Borussia Mönchengladbach, though that never materialised.
Featured image credit: Getty
