Real Madrid midfielder Fede Valverde has outlined the tactical differences between new manager Xabi Alonso and his predecessor, Carlo Ancelotti.
Alonso recently took over the managerial reins at Real Madrid, following his departure from Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen. He succeeded Ancelotti, who left the Spanish giants to become head coach of the Brazil national team.
After playing a key role in Real Madrid’s 3-1 victory over Pachuca in Sunday’s FIFA Club World Cup fixture, Valverde shared insights into the contrasting approaches of the two managers.
“Difference between Ancelotti and Xabi? Xabi asks us midfielders to have more control,” said the Uruguay international, as quoted by Madrid Zone.
“He doesn’t want us to drop deep to receive the ball, he wants us between the lines, so that we can turn and drive forward.”
Real Madrid are set to face RB Salzburg in their next Club World Cup clash on Friday.
