Villarreal boss weighs in on Ancelotti’s exit and Alonso’s Real Madrid appointment – ‘A natural fit’ | OneFootball

Villarreal manager Marcelino recently spoke with AS and opened up about Real Madrid’s transition from Carlo Ancelotti to Xabi Alonso.

The coach did not hold back his admiration for the Italian, and at the same time, showed full respect for Madrid’s new direction under Alonso.

Marcelino admitted feeling personally saddened by Carlo Ancelotti’s departure from La Liga.

He described Ancelotti as someone who brought dignity to the coaching profession and stressed how the veteran Italian served as a positive example for others in the game.

“He’s the coach with the most titles, and his personality and behaviour are a clear example for everyone, and specifically for me,” said Marcelino.

“I’ve experienced Ancelotti’s departure with personal sadness. Sad because I believe he’s a coach who dignifies the profession.

“It’s a shame that a person, a coach, who conveys so many positive qualities, is no longer in our league,” he noted.

Xabi Alonso the right choice for Real Madrid

Marcelino has backed Xabi Alonso to succeed at Real Madrid. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

With Ancelotti moving on, all eyes are now on Xabi Alonso, and Marcelino believes Real Madrid have made the right call.

The Villarreal boss pointed out that Alonso has already shown his class by winning the Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen, something few have done, considering Bayern Munich’s usual dominance.

Marcelino believes that Alonso’s deep knowledge of Madrid’s culture, combined with his winning mentality and calm leadership, could make him a strong and steady hand at the helm.

“Xabi’s arrival feels like a natural fit,” he said. “He played at Real Madrid, he understands the demands of a top club, and he knows what it means to win as both a player and coach.

“I wish him the best. I think he’s a good solution for Real Madrid,” he added.