Bayern Munich midfield maestro Xabi Alonso has heaped praises on Atletico Madrid’s manager, Diego Simeone, ahead of the much-awaited clash between the two teams. Bayern travel to the Vicente Calderon to take on Atletico Madrid and leading up to the game, Alonso acknowledged the great work Simeone has done with the Madrid club in recent seasons.
The Spaniard has fond memories of playing against Atletico and tonight will be his 25th encounter against the Los Rojiblancos with first dating back to 2003 when he played against them in the colors of Real Sociedad.
Ahead of his next visit to Spanish capital, Alonso explained his relationship with Diego Simeone and spoke to Marca: "It is amazing what has been achieved, they [Atletico] have been the elite of European football in recent years and Cholo is responsible, I admire him and I respect and appreciate everything he has done, he is a super coach."
“I think he has to feel identified with projects, he wouldn’t just take on any old job – I could see him at Inter or Argentina in the future, I think those would fit.
“He is a super coach, but it is now too late in my career to work with him and whilst we might not always share the same ideas, it would have been fascinating for any player to be coached by him.”
Champions League glory with Real Madrid
Xabi has followed Atletico’s progression in all these years and holds Simeone responsible for their recent success in both domestic and European Football. Atletico won the La Liga title back in 2013-14 season and have qualified for two Champions League finals, only to lose against their bitter rivals – Real Madrid.
One of those finals saw Alonso get charged with improper conduct for celebrating Gareth Bale’s goal in extra time and rushing on the pitch when he wasn't even on the field in a playing capacity. Simeone was also charged with improper conduct as he was left infuriated with the celebrations from Real Madrid’s coaches, players and staff on the bench.
Recalling the incident, Alonso said: "Yes, I remember, with football I am like a volcano, I feel so alive and when Gareth [Bale] scored the goal that passion was unleashed, I did what all Madrid fans would have liked to do."
Still going strong at Bayern Munich
Alonso is still going strong for Bayern at the age of 34 with Carlo Ancelotti now as his manager who fully trusts in his abilities. However, there are always muted conversations about the eventual day when he will hang up his boots and bid farewell to the game.
Touching on the point, Alonso confirmed that he is not thinking in that direction right now but as the season progresses he will evaluate his position at Bayern and will assess his future accordingly. The Spaniard is also linked with a possible return to Liverpool where he is still seen as a cult hero.
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