“Xabi is a personality who reflects strongly,” says Simon Rolfes about Xabi Alonso (left). Image: dpa
Simon Rolfes, Sporting Director of Bayer 04 Leverkusen, on Xabi Alonso’s power, why Leverkusen inspire internationally – and what’s wrong with talent development in Germany.
Mr Rolfes, Thomas Tuchel, one of the most well-known coaches in world football, is back in the Bundesliga, but it seems that in Xabi Alonso you have perhaps the most interesting coach in the league because he is less well known. Will he change Bayer Leverkusen more than his predecessors?
Of course, Xabi also has great appeal outside of Germany. That has power, no question. He was a special player and he showed last season that with his competence and quality he also has the potential to be a very good coach. It’s a good combination that doesn’t come around that often.
