The dismissal of Xabi Alonso as head coach of Real Madrid, just days after the club’s defeat in the Spanish Super Cup final against Barcelona, continues to spark reactions across European football. This time, it was Hansi Flick, manager of the Blaugrana, who publicly weighed in—making it clear that his respect for the Basque coach goes beyond sporting rivalry.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of Barcelona’s Copa del Rey Round of 16 clash against Racing de Santander, the German coach was asked about Alonso’s exit and did not hesitate to offer supportive words.

Flick Praises Alonso and His Coaching Future

“This is football. It’s not something that depends on me,” Hansi Flick began, before highlighting the personal relationship he shares with Xabi Alonso dating back to their time when Alonso coached Bayer Leverkusen and Flick was in charge of the German national team. “I wish him all the best. I’m sure he and his staff will soon be involved in a great project. He’s a fantastic coach with a great future,” Flick said.

The Barcelona boss’s comments echo a widespread sentiment within the game: Xabi Alonso’s brief spell at Real Madrid does not erase the reputation he has built nor the potential that still lies ahead. Flick made it clear that the dismissal should not be seen as a definitive failure, but rather as part of the harsh reality of elite football.

The Relentless Pressure at Clubs Like Real Madrid

When asked whether Real Madrid’s decision surprised him, Flick explained that such outcomes are inherent to the profession. “Football is about winning. The club has to believe in you, but ultimately the people who make the decisions are the ones who decide—and Real Madrid chose to act this way,” he said calmly.

The German coach also underlined how demanding the managerial role is at top clubs, where expectations are sky-high and margins for error are minimal. “The job is very difficult and comes with a lot of responsibility. In the end, this is simply part of our work,” he added.

Barcelona’s Stability and ‘Family’ Culture

Flick declined to comment in detail on Álvaro Arbeloa’s appointment as Alonso’s replacement, noting that he would analyze him when the two sides meet on the pitch. Instead, he used the moment to emphasize the internal environment at Barcelona.

“Here, everything works like a family—players, coaching staff, and the board,” Flick explained. “We’ve built something special together.” While acknowledging that situations can change quickly in football, he stressed how much he values that sense of unity and shared purpose.

As Xabi Alonso steps away from Real Madrid to reflect on his next move, the public backing from Hansi Flick reinforces the idea that his standing in the game remains strong. In football, cycles can end abruptly—but opportunities for top coaches tend to return just as fast.

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