Arsenal’s Mikel Merino has thrown his full support behind Xabi Alonso, saying he is “more than ready” for the top job at Real Madrid.
Speaking from the national team camp of Spain, the midfielder said Alonso had progressed from legend to tactician.
What did Merino say about Alonso?
“He was a role model for all of us,” he disclosed to EFE. “We saw him win everything with Spain. We grew up admiring players like him, and now to be competing at the same level is still hard to believe.
“As a coach, he’s a star,” remarked Merino. “You can see the influence he’s had on every coach in his career,” he added.
“He’s been a sponge, and the work he’s done with Leverkusen has led him to take on the biggest challenge there is in football: being the coach of Real Madrid, with the pressure that entails.”
The gaffer’s reign as Bayer Leverkusen manager from October 2022 to May 2025 saw him manage 138 fixtures, triumphing 89 times, with 30 stalemates and 19 defeats.
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In 2023-24 campaign, he made Leverkusen clinch their first in history German Bundesliga trophy, finishing an unbeaten season with 28 victories and six draws. He also won the DFB-Pokal and DFL-Supercup as well.
“I think he’s more than ready, and I wish him the best.
He concluded: “We met in San Sebastian, and I have a lot of respect for him. I hope he has a lot of success, as long as he doesn’t cross paths with us.”
What qualifies Alonso for Real Madrid?
Stepping in for Carlo Ancelotti, the Spaniard assumes command of a squad immersed in history and high hopes.
His recent achievements with Leverkusen raised eyebrows all throughout Europe. His calm leadership approach and strategic sense distinguished him from other contenders.
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The Gunners’ midfielder contends that Alonso’s preparation for this prestigious position stems from his career path—learning under outstanding coaches and soaking tactical depth. At the Santiago Bernabeu, he now experiences the most severe stress in international football.
Their meeting point…?
The Spain international also revealed a personal moment, remembering a conversation with the ex-Bayern Munich player in San Sebastian.That meeting left a lasting mark that confirmed Merino’s confidence in the new Madrid head.
Wishing the gaffer well, the 28-year-old jokingly said that the success should not conflict with his own goals.
All eyes will be on Alonso’s first season in charge since the La Liga spotlight is about to get even more vivid.Supported by peer admiration from Merino and others, his path is one to be closely observed.
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