Xabi Alonso’s managerial success at Bayer Leverkusen has revived his prominence in the football world, with his achievements drawing comparisons to his playing days. Notably, José Mourinho had foreseen Alonso’s potential as a coach several years ago, a prediction that is now coming to fruition this season.
In a 2010 interview on the official FIFA website, Mourinho expressed his belief that Alonso possessed the qualities to excel in coaching after retiring from playing. Drawing parallels to current Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, Mourinho highlighted Alonso’s remarkable ability to dictate play on the field.
“He has the quality that a ‘metronome’ must have,” Mourinho remarked, likening Alonso’s leadership on the pitch to Guardiola’s during their time together at Barcelona. “He reminds me of Pep Guardiola when I had him as a player. He was already a coach on the pitch,” Mourinho added.
Guardiola, who worked alongside Mourinho at Barcelona, captained the team while Mourinho served as an assistant manager from 1996 to 2000. This shared experience further emphasizes the similarities between Guardiola’s and Alonso’s approaches to the game.
Alonso’s impact as a manager at Bayer Leverkusen this season has been remarkable, with the team currently leading the Bundesliga table with 52 points, ahead of perennial contenders Bayern Munich. Their unbeaten league record, comprising 16 wins and four draws in 20 games, underscores Alonso’s tactical acumen and leadership.
Furthermore, Bayer Leverkusen’s progression to the German Cup semifinals further solidifies Alonso’s credentials as a promising coach. As they gear up for a crucial league encounter against Bayern Munich, a victory could extend their lead at the top of the table, cementing Alonso’s status as a rising managerial star in the football world.
