Alonso and the second or maternal family name is Olano. In this spanish mention, the first or agnate surname isand the second or maternal family name is Xabier Alonso Olano ( Basque : [ ˈʃaβi aˈlons̺o oˈlano ], spanish : [ ˈ ( metric ton ) ʃaβj aˈlonso oˈlano ] ; born 25 November 1981 ) is a spanish football director and early professional player who played as a central or defensive midfielder. He is the coach of Segunda División club Real Sociedad B.
Reading: Xabi Alonso
Alonso began his career at Real Sociedad, the main team of his home province Gipuzkoa. After a abbreviated loan period at Eibar, he was appointed as team captain of Real Sociedad by then-manager John Toshack. He succeeded in the function, taking the club to second place in the 2002–03 season. He moved to Liverpool in August 2004 for £ 10.5 million and won the UEFA Champions League in his first temper, under director Rafael Benítez, scoring the equalising goal in the Final against Milan. The following temper, he won the FA Cup and the FA Community Shield. He moved to Real Madrid for the startle of the 2009–10 season in a deal worth around £30 million. After winning honor including a league title in 2012 and the Champions League in 2014 during five seasons in Madrid, he was signed by german clubhouse Bayern Munich on a biennial contract. This was extended by a foster year, and he finally retired from playing in summer 2017, aged 35, having won the Bundesliga in each of his three seasons with Bayern. [ 3 ] He made his international debut for Spain in April 2003 in a 4–0 victory against Ecuador. While playing for Spain, Alonso won Euro 2008, Euro 2012 and the 2010 World Cup, and he besides represented his area at Euro 2004 and the 2006 World Cup. On 23 June 2012, Alonso won his hundredth detonator for Spain in the quarter-final of Euro 2012 against France ; he celebrated the affair by scoring both of Spain ‘s goals to send them into the semi-finals. Following Spain ‘s failure to progress out of the group stages at the 2014 World Cup, Alonso retired from external football on 27 August 2014. His 114 caps make him the seventh-most capped player in the nation ‘s history .
early years [edit ]
Alonso was born in the humble town of Tolosa, Gipuzkoa, Basque Country, into a family known for its footballing art. His father, Periko Alonso, won La Liga twice in consecutive seasons with Real Sociedad and a third gear fourth dimension after he joined Barcelona. He besides featured in the national team, winning 21 caps over the course of his career. [ 4 ] Xabi Alonso lived in the city of Barcelona for the first gear six years of his liveliness and moved to San Sebastián ( Donostia ) thereafter. It was here that his passion for football began as he whiled away his childhood play at Playa de la Concha ( Shell Beach ). [ 4 ] On the Basque sands, Alonso befriended a fellow resident of Calle Matia, Mikel Arteta, and the two would conflict each early in exhibitions of technical ability. [ 5 ] He was immersed in football and his forefather would often bring him and his older brother, Mikel, to CE Sabadell ‘s trail background to practice together. Alonso was influenced by his father ‘s play, taking more pleasure in passing the ball well than shooting at goal. [ 6 ] At an early age, he decided to play as a defensive midfielder, a character which helped him learn how to distribute the ball well. This talent would late prove to be an integral partially of his cabaret and international career. [ 4 ] At age 15, Alonso went to the irish town of Kells, County Meath, on a school exchange program to learn English. [ 7 ] [ 8 ] [ 9 ] Alonso and Arteta were ambitious and dreamed of playing aboard each other for real number Sociedad when they were older. Though they attended unlike schools, the two young players joined forces at the local youth side Antiguoko, playing games at the weekend. [ 10 ] Their performances attracted the attention of scouts from top Spanish sides and the young Donostiarras separated ways, ending nine years of friendly competition, as Alonso went to Real Sociedad and Arteta moved to Catalan giants Barcelona. [ 11 ] Alonso ‘s move to Real Sociedad, however, was not a companionless one, as his older brother Mikel, who had besides become an ace actor, joined the cabaret together with him. [ 4 ]
Club career [edit ]
real Sociedad [edit ]
Alonso quickly progressed through the youth ranks and the allow team at Real Sociedad ( winning the regionalised fourth tier in his single season with the latter ) and impress adequate to earn a first team debut at the senesce of 18. [ 6 ] He made his beginning senior appearance against Logroñés in December 1999 in a Copa del Rey match. [ 12 ] Alonso failed to make another appearance in the season but the following year brought more opportunities. At the begin of the 2000–01 season, Javier Clemente sent him to Segunda División team Eibar to gain know. Alonso ‘s beget particularly felt the move to the smaller clubhouse improved him as a player. [ 6 ] A quick dollar volume of managers, however, including a two-month period with Periko Alonso in charge, left real Sociedad in a desperate situation. By January 2001, Real Sociedad were bottom of the league and its new coach, John Toshack, turned to the portentous Alonso in the hope of reversing the team ‘s fortunes. In a surprise move, the Welsh director made the 20-year-old the team captain, a status traditionally held by more senior players. [ 4 ] By the end of the season, Sociedad had climbed out of the relegation partition and finished in 14th place. [ 13 ] Toshack lauded Alonso, noting that the impression he had on the team was exceeding, particularly for a player from the youth team. [ 4 ] Under the tutelage of John Toshack, Alonso ‘s captainship marked a revival of imprint for real Sociedad. Toshack recognised Alonso ‘s likely and invested much time in his young captain, creating a trail method designed to improve his partake and control specifically for him. [ 14 ] The team cemented its mid-table position in the 2001–02, finishing in 13th stead. Alonso appeared systematically in La Liga with 30 appearances over the course of the season and besides scored his first base league goal, finishing with a temper total of three. Real Sociedad ‘s management changed again in the summer of 2002 with the arrival of Raynald Denoueix, but Alonso kept his position in the first team on the forte of his past performances. [ 15 ] The 2002–03 season was the club ‘s best league operation since the 1981–82 season, in which they won the league. The Basque team finished moment, two points behind real Madrid, [ 16 ] setting a baseball club record for their highest ever points total, and qualifying for the UEFA Champions League for the first time. [ 17 ] Alonso received much praise for his character in the team ‘s success and was given the Best Spanish Player award by spanish sports cartridge holder Don Balón. [ 18 ] In accession, Alonso significantly contributed to the team ‘s goal total, scoring 12 goals in all competitions. [ 19 ] His performances earned Alonso national repute and Iñaki Sáez, the coach of the spanish national team, called him up for La Selección. Alonso made his external debut in April 2003 in a 4–0 friendly win over Ecuador. [ 20 ] Sáez raved over Alonso, saying, “ He has a fantastic range of accurate run [ and ] sees football with an extraordinary clearness. ” [ 4 ] The 2003–04 season comprised shuffle results for Alonso and his San Sebastián clubhouse. Alonso revelled in the opportunity to perform in Europe, appearing in all the team ‘s games, and Real Sociedad qualified for the smasher phase of the Champions League. The team struggled under the imperativeness of the supernumerary matches, however, and were promptly knocked out of the tournament by Lyon and finished 15th in La Liga. [ 19 ] The combination of Alonso ‘s great performances and the team ‘s inadequate league coating made a act away from Anoeta Stadium inevitable. Despite interest from La Liga champions Real Madrid, Alonso remained committed to Real Sociedad. [ 4 ] Madrid failed to meet the £ 13 million price rag that José Luis Astiazarán, the Real Sociedad president, had placed on Alonso and the deal reached a stalemate. [ 19 ] Alonso had other concerns and focused on international duty with Spain at UEFA Euro 2004. [ 20 ] Despite the fact that Alonso ‘s appearance at the tournament was abbreviated, he caught the attention of go to bed football player Jan Mølby, who was impressed with his precise pass abilities. [ 4 ] The summer transfer window at Real Sociedad saw the arrival of Alonso ‘s childhood friend Mikel Arteta. [ 21 ] Arteta was ecstatic at the prospect of partnering Alonso in midfield, but his excitement was ephemeral. [ 5 ] Alonso was not picked for Real Sociedad ‘s pre-season friendlies, signalling that an extend by Liverpool was being treated badly. [ 21 ] The Basque side announced on 20 August 2004 that they had made a manage worth £10.7 million with Liverpool and Alonso had agreed terms with the Merseyside team. [ 12 ] [ 22 ] Alonso did not lament the fact that a move to Real Madrid had not materialised. rather, he concentrated on integrating with the new spanish contingent at Liverpool under the guidance of former Valencia coach Rafael Benítez. [ 4 ]
liverpool [edit ]
2004–05 : Champions League victory [edit ]
Alonso arrived at Liverpool along with Luis García from Barcelona, marking the begin of a modern era at Anfield. New Liverpool director Rafael Benítez sought to revolutionise the club and completely overhauled the squad, impressing his own management style and tactics upon the team. [ 23 ] The technical Spaniards were Benítez ‘s beginning signings and he remarked that their emphasis of skill over lastingness offered the team something different. [ 22 ] [ 24 ] Alonso made his Premier League debut for the Merseysiders against Bolton Wanderers at the Reebok Stadium on 29 August 2004. [ 12 ] Liverpool lost the repair 1–0 but Alonso was already receiving praise for his passing skills from the press. [ 25 ] A Premier League tie away against Fulham displayed more of Alonso ‘s talents. Liverpool were losing 2–0 at half-time and Benítez brought on Alonso as a stand-in after the break. He revived a deflate Liverpool and the game finished 2–4 to the Merseyside team. [ 26 ] Furthermore, Alonso scored his first goal for the team from a free kick to bring Liverpool ahead of the opposition. [ 27 ]
Alonso playing against The New Saints in the Champions League in July 2005 Alonso continued to provide important goals for the clubhouse, scoring his first finish at Anfield against Arsenal in a 2–1 victory. [ 28 ] Alonso was elated at the accomplishment and felt he was settling in well in England. [ 29 ] The Arsenal plot marked the return of Steven Gerrard from injury but Alonso ‘s midfield partnership with the team captain came to a halt when Alonso suffered his first reverse at Liverpool. Alonso ‘s ankle was broken following a harness from Frank Lampard in Liverpool ‘s 0–1 home frustration against Chelsea on New Year ‘s Day 2005 and the Spaniard was ruled out of action for three months. [ 30 ] [ 31 ] Alonso made his render to the foremost team in the second peg of the Champions League quarter-final against Juventus. Alonso was not at wax fitness but, as Steven Gerrard was injured, he played for the full 90 minutes and Liverpool held the score at 0–0 in Italy, defeating the eventual italian champions on aggregate. [ 32 ] Kevin McCarra of The Guardian paid testament to Alonso ‘s skill and dedication to the game, saying, “ This wonderfully accomplished football player testified in the Stadio delle Alpi that proficiency can overcome a serious physical disadvantage. ” [ 33 ] In the next round against Chelsea, Alonso received a yellow wag in a tense and scrappy 0–0 draw at Stamford Bridge, making him suspended for the follow fastness. [ 34 ] Alonso was distraught that he would miss the game and vehemently contested the reviewer ‘s decisiveness to no avail. [ 35 ] [ 36 ] Gerrard returned from injury for the moment leg, however, and the captain steered his team to a 1–0 acquire with the help of a Luis García goal, qualifying for the concluding against Milan. [ 37 ] Liverpool ‘s fifth-place ending in the Premiership left much to be desired but debut season glory however awaited Alonso in the shape of the Champions League concluding. The team fell three goals behind Milan but completed a dramatic second-half rejoinder. [ 38 ] Liverpool, trailing 3–2, were awarded a penalty and it was decided that Alonso would take the spot kick. While Dida, Milan ‘s applaud brazilian goalkeeper, managed to save the penalty Alonso fired the rebound into the roof of the net, bringing the score to 3–3. [ 39 ] Extra time passed without a goal from either team and Liverpool won 3–2 in the penalty gunfight. [ 40 ] Alonso was praised for his pivotal influence on the team ‘s comeback and coach Benítez reinforced his importance to the team. [ 41 ] [ 42 ] [ 43 ] Alonso was ecstatic with the winnings, comment, “ This is the best moment in my professional career. ” [ 44 ] The epic poem night was besides recalled to be the ‘Miracle of Istanbul ‘. [ 45 ]
2005–06 : FA Cup winner [edit ]
Alonso taking a corner kick for Liverpool in March 2006 Alonso was ever-present in the first team in the 2005–06 temper, largely avoiding injuries that had marred his first season at the club. The summer remove window brought Peter Crouch to Liverpool and the striker ‘s height sparked accusations that the team would change to long ball tactics. crouch denied this, highlighting that Alonso ‘s pass ability, aboard Gerrard, would define Liverpool ‘s stylus of gambling. [ 46 ] Alonso faced more contest for his space in the form of new arrival Mohamed Sissoko. however, Steven Gerrard ‘s injuries and Rafael Benítez ‘s favor of a 4–5–1 constitution ensured Alonso ‘s position in the team. Alonso appeared in all of Liverpool ‘s games in the Champions League but the dominance shown in the former temper had gone as the team lost to Benfica in the hard stage. On 7 January 2006, in an FA Cup third-round tie against Luton Town, Alonso assisted Liverpool to a 5–3 comeback victory after being down 3–1 early on in the second half. [ 47 ] Alonso scored two impressive goals from distance : one from 45 yards, and the other 65 yards from goal ; behind the half-way line. [ 12 ] [ 48 ] Consequently, Alonso ‘s goals marked a stroke of luck for a Liverpool sports fan who won £25,000 from a £200 bet on Alonso scoring from within his own half. [ 49 ] Alonso suffered an ankle injury in a 1–3 away victory over Portsmouth, putting his engagement in the FA Cup final in doubt. [ 50 ] however, he recovered sufficiently to start the game against West Ham United and Gerrard scored Liverpool ‘s third goal from Alonso ‘s complimentary bang, pulling the team ahead of the opposition. Alonso, hush affected by the wound, could not manage the entire 90 minutes and was substituted in the second half. Liverpool won on penalties without his assistant but Alonso hush earned his first FA Cup winners ‘ decoration. [ 51 ]
Alonso and Dirk Kuyt playing for Liverpool in April 2007 On 20 September 2006, Alonso scored what the BBC described as “ an hideous strike ” from his own one-half in a 2–0 Premiership winnings against Newcastle United. [ 52 ] Andy Hunter of The Independent described it as “ one of the most audacious goals in Anfield ‘s ample 115-year history ”. [ 53 ] Alonso rebutted claims that his 70-yard goal was all down to luck and stated that he took long compass shots as share of his discipline everyday. [ 54 ] Despite the similarity of the goals struck from inside his own half, Alonso was in no doubt which was his best. He said, “ I think this was better. The Luton finish bounced a few times, this one went quite straight. The Luton one was left-footed – it was different – but I am quite glad to score the goal. ” [ 55 ] It was his foremost finish for Liverpool since the finish against Luton, making distinct history as the only outfield player in modern professional football history to score two consecutive goals from inside his own half of the pitch. [ 52 ] On 8 June 2007, Alonso signed a five-year abridge, express, “ I knew there was interest from other clubs but it was constantly my idea to stay here. I have been hera for three seasons immediately and have such particular feelings for the club and the supporters. I understand what Liverpool means to so many people. It is such a particular club and I barely did n’t want to leave. ” [ 56 ] The 2007–08 season started well for the Spaniard : Gerrard ‘s absence led to Alonso play in a more advance side and he scored doubly in a 6–0 rout against Premier League newcomers Derby County. [ 57 ] [ 58 ] The bright begin was ephemeral, however, as a minor injury sustained in a game against Portsmouth became aggravated in train. [ 59 ] The metatarsal injury forced him out of educate for six weeks but his tax return to the first team was rushed and his injury recurred in his first gear game back. Alonso ‘s decision and love proved to be his downfall, and he late reflected, “ I had been feeling a bit banal around that time because it was alone my first game back and the meet was very fast. But as a player you do n’t want to come off, peculiarly when the team is winning and I stayed on. ” [ 60 ] Alonso returned from wound at December 2007, but over the following months he increasingly faced competition for a position in midfield from Javier Mascherano and Lucas. [ 61 ] [ 62 ] His function in Liverpool ‘s five-man midfield role was assured, however, as Rafael Benítez regarded him as “ a crown class musician ”, stating that Alonso had the ability to change games and break down the opposition ‘s defense. [ 63 ] [ 64 ] Alonso made his hundredth league appearance for Liverpool on 12 January 2008 against Middlesbrough. [ 65 ] The 2008 summer transfer windowpane suggested a go away from Merseyside, as Liverpool pursued England external Gareth Barry to replace Alonso. [ 66 ] By the start of the 2008–09 temper, neither Alonso or Barry had moved club but the drawn-out transfer saga had left the Spaniard feel unsettled at Liverpool and diffident of his position in the team. [ 67 ] [ 68 ] however, the club ‘s fans did much to restore his spirits, supporting him on and off the pitch, and Alonso responded to this, saying :
- “[The fans] couldn’t have done more to show me how they felt… If I went out for lunch or a coffee, there was always someone who would come over and say, ‘We’d love you to stay’. I’m just glad that, in the end, nothing came of it [the transfer] because it wasn’t something I ever asked for.”[69]
Despite the events of the summer, Alonso made a confident start to the season and both his peers and the press praised his force of character, citing his influence as a factor in the team ‘s strong opening to the season. [ 69 ] [ 70 ] Alonso ‘s importance to the team was far underscore when he scored the only goal, through a deflection, in a 0–1 victory against Chelsea, making Liverpool the inaugural away team to win at Stamford Bridge in over four years. [ 71 ] Statistical analysis reflected Alonso ‘s full form : on 11 December, figures from Opta Sports revealed that he was the first Premier League player to complete 1,000 successful passes in the season. [ 72 ] His last goal for Liverpool came in their 1–3 away win at Hull City on 25 April, striking after his exempt kick deflected off the Hull wall. [ 73 ]
real Madrid [edit ]
2009–10 season [edit ]
Alonso playing for Real Madrid in February 2012 Alonso completed his £30 million move to Real Madrid on 5 August 2009. [ 74 ] It has been suggested that he never wanted to leave the Anfield side, with his contract existing until at least 2012, and that his passing was due to differences with Benítez. [ 75 ] [ 76 ] [ 77 ] Former teammate Steven Gerrard said he was “ devastated ” by Alonso ‘s decision, and cited his passing as one of the reasons behind Liverpool ‘s poor run of mannequin at the get down of the succeed season. [ 78 ] Alonso was given the number 22 jersey in Madrid and played in a holding midfield side. He scored his beginning goal for his new team on 21 February 2010, a penalty against Villarreal in a 6–2 winnings. [ 79 ] Unless he was injured or suspended, Manuel Pellegrini started Alonso in every pit of the Champions League and in La Liga in his first season at Real Madrid. [ 80 ] In La Liga, he helped the baseball club coating with a club-record 96 points, three points behind winners Barcelona. [ 81 ] It was the third gear time in Alonso ‘s career that he helped his team set a fresh cabaret record in terms of points gathered, while finishing in second position ( he achieved the same feat with Real Sociedad in 2002–03 and with Liverpool in 2008–09 ). During his first gear season at Real Madrid, Alonso scored three goals and was considered one of the cabaret ‘s “ most consistent ” players. [ 82 ] Readers of Marca made him part of its La Liga team of the season, as their choice defensive midfielder ; the only other Real Madrid actor featured was Cristiano Ronaldo. [ 83 ] Alonso received the same award from ESPN Soccernet. [ 84 ] He was besides a campaigner in the LFP Awards, awards given out by the Liga de Fútbol Profesional, the spanish Football league. Alonso was nominated in the Best Midfielder class, aboard Xavi and Javi Martínez. [ 85 ] respective members of the spanish press, adenine well as a numeral of Real Madrid supporters, gave Alonso a newfangled nickname during the season : La Barba Roja ( “ The Red Beard ” ). [ 86 ]
2010–11 season [edit ]
Alonso ‘s second base season at Real Madrid started with the arrival of a raw director, José Mourinho. He was given the number 14 jersey after the passing of vice-captain Guti. [ 87 ] He did not score any goals that whole season but was full of life. While he believed [ citation needed ] that Real Madrid would win the league, the cabaret only managed to win the Copa del Rey .
2011–12 season [edit ]
Alonso began his third season at Madrid by scoring the second goal in a 2–2 draw against Barcelona in the 2011 Supercopa de España at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. On 21 September 2011, he played his hundredth official crippled for Real Madrid in the 0–0 draw against Racing de Santander. Alonso continued to be an undisputed force in the depart XI and ultimately claimed the first league title of his career .
2013–14 : La Decima [edit ]
Alonso with Real Madrid in 2014 On 8 January 2014, Alonso signed a contract propagation with Real Madrid, which would have kept him at the golf club until 2016. [ 88 ] On 29 April 2014, Real Madrid defeated Bayern Munich 4–0 in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final to qualify for the concluding on a 5–0 aggregate win. [ 89 ] Alonso received a yellow wag after a sliding rigging on Bastian Schweinsteiger in the first half ; as he already had two before the pit, this ruled him out of the final. [ 90 ] He claimed his second Champions League winners medal as Real defeated Atlético Madrid 4–1 in excess time .
Bayern Munich [edit ]
Alonso playing for Bayern against CSKA Moscow in 2014 On 29 August 2014, Alonso moved to Bayern Munich on a biennial deal for an undisclosed tip. [ 91 ] [ 92 ] [ 93 ] He made his introduction the following day, starting in a 1–1 draw at Schalke 04. [ 94 ] On 27 September 2014, in the match against 1. FC Köln, Alonso broke the record for most passes completed in a Bundesliga game, with 196. [ 95 ] He scored his first base goal for the clubhouse on 18 October 2014, a spare complain in a 6–0 succeed over Werder Bremen. [ 96 ] On 17 February 2015, in his hundredth Champions League appearance, Alonso was sent-off for a irregular bookable umbrage in a 0–0 draw against Shakhtar Donetsk. [ 97 ] Alonso was suspended for the return leg of the repair, [ 98 ] which Bayern won 7–0. [ 99 ] Alonso would go on to record his fourth goal, another free kick, against Porto in the Champions League quarter-final. Bayern would go on to win 6–1, advancing to the semi-finals for a fourth-straight season on aggregate, 7–4. On 28 April 2015, Alonso was one of four Bayern players, all FIFA World Cup winners, to miss in a 2–0 penalty gunfight get the better of to Borussia Dortmund in the DFB-Pokal semi-final. [ 100 ] He was besides the only actor to miss as the club lost the gunfight at the end of the 2015 DFL-Supercup away to VfL Wolfsburg, his attempt being saved by goalkeeper Koen Casteels. [ 101 ] On 18 December 2015, Alonso signed a new sign with Bayern, keeping him at the cabaret until 2017. [ 102 ] On 9 March 2017, Alonso confirmed via Twitter his retirement from the game at the end of the 2016–17 temper. [ 103 ] [ 104 ] On 20 May 2017, Alonso and teammate, Bayern captain Philipp Lahm played their final examination professional game, in a 4–1 victory at home to Freiburg in which he assisted the opening goal for Arjen Robben. He was substituted off in the 82nd infinitesimal for Franck Ribéry. It was his 79th match in the german top-flight. [ 105 ]
Read more: Paris Saint-Germain F.C.
International career [edit ]
euro 2004 [edit ]
Alonso was a alternate in Spain ‘s 1–0 victory against Russia and played a full 90 minutes against Portugal. Spain were eliminated in the group degree. [ 20 ]
2006 World Cup [edit ]
Alonso was named in the spanish police squad for the 2006 FIFA World Cup and he scored Spain ‘s first goal of the tournament, his first external finish, against Ukraine on 14 June 2006. [ 106 ] Despite a successful group phase, where Spain won all their games, Alonso did not achieve international aura as the team were beaten by the eventual finalists France in the first knockout phase of the tournament. [ 107 ]
euro 2008 [edit ]
Liverpool ‘s 2007–08 season finished trophyless but the opportunity to win honours awaited Alonso in the kind of the Euro 2008 tournament. Alonso featured chiefly as a utility but, with key players resting, he captained Spain in the final group game against Greece, earning the serviceman of the match award. [ 108 ] Despite a potent operation, he could not attain a starting position in the team, highlighting Spain ‘s potency in depth. [ 109 ] Spain went on to win the tournament and he featured in four of Spain ‘s six matches. [ 110 ] Speaking to spanish journalist Guillem Balagué, he said that Spain ‘s victory was deserved and the players ‘ teamwork had been all-important to the team ‘s undefeated run in the tournament. The Basque was ecstatic at the accomplishment, declaring, “ right now, we ‘re all just living the moment. It ‘s incredible and we ‘re all walking around in a ambition. It ‘s fantastic. ” [ 111 ] Alonso ‘s external success continued as he scored twice in a 3–0 acquire in a friendly against Denmark in August. [ 112 ]
2009 Confederations Cup [edit ]
After Spain were surprisingly eliminated from the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup by a kill to the United States, Alonso and Spain faced South Africa in the third-place match. After 90 minutes, the game was deadlocked at 2–2, indeed extra time was added, where Alonso scored a free-kick in to the buttocks corner of the goal to help Spain gain third .
2010 World Cup [edit ]
Alonso started every game for Spain during the 2010 tournament, playing aboard Sergio Busquets and Xavi in midfield and helping his side to lift their first-ever World Cup trophy. [ 113 ] In the 28th minute of the concluding against the Netherlands, he received a “ Kung fu -style ” kick to the chest of drawers from Dutch midfielder Nigel de Jong, the cruddy was controversial since it appeared to be a clog worthy of a straight red, but was only ruled out to be a yellow circuit board given by referee Howard Webb. This left Alonso in pain and in fear of a break ridicule. [ 114 ] Despite this trouble, he continued playing on for another hour .
euro 2012 [edit ]
On 23 June 2012, Alonso played his hundredth couple for Spain [ 115 ] in the quarter-finals against France in which he scored both goals in a 2–0 victory. The first finish came after he headed a cross from the left flank delivered by Jordi Alba, while the second one came from a punishment complain given after Pedro was fouled by Anthony Réveillère in the dying seconds of the equal. [ 116 ] Alonso ‘s punishment in the semi-final shoot-out against Portugal was saved by Rui Patrício in which Spain went on to win 4–2 after a 0–0 pull in the crippled itself. [ 117 ] Spain went on to beat Gianluigi Buffon and Italy 4–0 in the finals ; this was Alonso ‘s third base major title succeed with Spain. [ 118 ]
2014 World Cup [edit ]
Spain were again amongst the favourites for cup victory in the 2014 FIFA World Cup, but had a very disappointing campaign that ended in the first base round. Alonso scored a penalty in the twenty-seventh minute of their first match against the Netherlands, though he was substituted in the 62nd moment with Spain down 2–1. The catch ultimately ended with a resounding 5–1 winnings for the Netherlands. Spain then suffered another get the better of, this fourth dimension falling 2–0 to Chile. In that match, Alonso received a chicken card in the first one-half and was substituted at half-time with the score already at 2–0. Spain were then eliminated from the tournament but did win their final examination match 3–0 against Australia and finished third base in the group ; Alonso played 83 minutes in the match. alonso retired from external football on 27 August 2014. [ 119 ]
Basque Country [edit ]
Alonso made his debut for the Basque Country national team in a friendly against Ghana on 29 December 2001 [ 120 ] and received regular call ups since, while – due to his busy club schedule – not always being able to appear. Most recently, Alonso appeared for Basque on 29 December 2012 in a 6–1 victory over Bolivia. [ 121 ]
stylus of play [edit ]
A complete, consistent, hardworking and versatile midfielder, Alonso is regarded as one of the best midfielders of his generation, and was effective both creatively and defensively. [ 122 ] Gifted with beneficial technique, excellent sight, and varied die roll, he excelled in the center in a deep-lying playmaking character, where he utilized his accurate long passing ability to create goal scoring chances for teammates ; [ 123 ] he besides utilized a mighty and accurate shot from outdistance, and he was an effective set-piece and penalty kick taker. [ 122 ] [ 124 ] [ 125 ] due to his altitude, position, and physical characteristics, Xabi Alonso was besides effective in the publicize, frequently contributing with headed goals from set pieces when he advanced into more offensive positions. [ 126 ] In summation to his creative attributes, he was besides adequate to of excelling as a defensive midfielder due to his potency and powerful physique, combined with his doggedness, tactical news, aggressive harness and his ability to read the game. [ 122 ] [ 127 ] [ 128 ] He was at times criticised, however, for occasionally committing rash challenges and for his leaning to lose his composure and pick up unnecessary cards for particularly hard foul. [ 129 ] Regarding Alonso ‘s play style, Jonathan Wilson noted in a 2013 article for The Guardian that he was an model of a more creative interpreter of the holding midfield role, who, “ although capable of making tackles, focused on keeping the ball moving, occasionally raking hanker passes out to the flanks to change the slant of attack like an old-style regista. ” [ 130 ] Since retire, Steven Gerrard has claimed that he believes Alonso was the best midfielder he has ever played aboard. [ 131 ] furthermore, in 2017, Pep Guardiola described Alonso as one of the best midfielders he had ever seen in his life. [ 132 ]
coach and managerial career [edit ]
In 2018, whilst completing his UEFA Elite coaching naturally aboard former teammates Raúl, Xavi, Víctor Valdés, and Joan Capdevila, Alonso returned to Real Madrid where he assumed a role coaching the Real Madrid U14s. [ 133 ]
real Sociedad B [edit ]
Alonso was appointed coach of Segunda División B cabaret Real Sociedad B on 1 June 2019, [ 134 ] and began the role on 9 July 2019. [ 135 ] In March 2021, despite being heavily linked to the soon-to-be vacant director role at Borussia Mönchengladbach, [ 136 ] Alonso signed a annual extension with the golf club. [ 137 ] In Alonso ‘s second season at Sanse, the club won promotion to the Segunda División, following a play-off acquire against Algeciras on 22 May 2021. The succeed signified Real Sociedad B ‘s first season spinal column in the Segunda División since 1961–62. [ 138 ]
personal life sentence [edit ]
Alonso was regarded as a silence and friendly person by his former teammates at Liverpool. [ 139 ] He is married to Nagore Aranburu and the couple have three children : Jontxu, Ane and Emma. Alonso stayed in Merseyside to be at her side while she gave birth, belated saying, “ It was a little frustrating to miss the equal against Inter but I have to be with my family at times like these. ” [ 140 ] His decisiveness to place his syndicate ahead of a Champions League tie caused much clash with former director Rafael Benítez. [ 141 ] [ 142 ] On 30 March 2010, they had their moment child, a girl named Ane Alonso Aranburu. [ 143 ] Their third child and second gear daughter, Emma Alonso Aranburu, was born on 2 December 2013. [ 144 ] Alonso and former Arsenal player Mikel Arteta were neighbours on the same street while growing up in San Sebastián and besides lived near each other in Liverpool. [ 145 ] Alonso convinced Arteta to transfer to Everton after he told him how felicitous he was living in Liverpool. [ 146 ] Alonso besides helped persuade former Real Sociedad teammate Juan Ugarte to make a go to Wales by joining Wrexham in 2004. [ 147 ] Alonso ‘s brother Mikel played for spanish club Real Unión. He previously spent a season on lend at Bolton Wanderers in the 2007–08 season with an option for a permanent deal. [ 148 ] [ 149 ] however, the team opted not to extend the loanword consider and he returned to Spain to train with Xabi Alonso ‘s erstwhile golf club, Real Sociedad. [ 150 ] Alonso besides has another brother involved in football, Jon, who works as a referee. [ 151 ] Alonso is a Meath Gaelic football patron. [ 152 ] His interest in the Irish sport stems from the age of 15 when he went to the irish town of Kells, County Meath, and stayed with a syndicate to learn English, where he played it in his spare time. [ 8 ] even while playing at Real Madrid, Alonso has declared himself a Liverpool patron and returns to watch games at Anfield when his agenda allows. He was quoted in The Times Online in 2011 as saying, “ I am inactive a Liverpool fan and will be constantly, absolutely ” and that he will raise his Liverpool-born son as a Red assistant. [ 153 ]
Politics [edit ]
In 2009, Xabi Alonso criticised then- Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Gordon Brown ‘s economic policy, in particular the devalued lebanese pound greatest and the 50 % tax rate, warning that it has weakened English football and could drive top players away from the UK. [ 154 ]
career statistics [edit ]
club [edit ]
Appearances and goals by club, season and competition
Club
Season
League
Cup
League Cup
Europe
Other1
Total
Division
Apps
Goals
Apps
Goals
Apps
Goals
Apps
Goals
Apps
Goals
Apps
Goals
Real Sociedad[155][156]
1999–2000
La Liga
0
0
1
0
–
0
0
–
1
0
2000–01
La Liga
18
0
0
0
–
0
0
–
18
0
2001–02
La Liga
29
3
0
0
–
0
0
–
29
3
2002–03
La Liga
33
3
1
0
–
0
0
–
34
3
2003–04
La Liga
34
3
0
0
–
8
1
–
42
4
Total
114
9
2
0
–
8
1
–
124
10
Eibar (loan)[155]
2000–01
Segunda División
14
0
0
0
–
0
0
–
14
0
Liverpool[157]
2004–05
Premier League
24
2
0
0
0
0
8
1
–
32
3
2005–06
Premier League
35
3
5
2
0
0
11
0
2
0
53
5
2006–07
Premier League
32
4
1
0
2
0
15
0
1
0
51
4
2007–08
Premier League
19
2
3
0
1
0
4
0
–
27
2
2008–09
Premier League
33
4
3
0
1
0
10
1
–
47
5
Total
143
15
12
2
4
0
48
2
3
0
210
19
Real Madrid[158]
2009–10
La Liga
34
3
0
0
–
7
0
–
41
3
2010–11
La Liga
34
0
7
1
–
11
0
–
52
1
2011–12
La Liga
36
1
4
0
–
10
0
2
1
52
2
2012–13
La Liga
28
0
7
0
–
10
0
2
0
47
0
2013–14
La Liga
26
0
7
0
–
9
0
0
0
42
0
2014–15
La Liga
0
0
0
0
–
0
0
2
0
2
0
Total
158
4
25
1
–
47
0
6
1
236
6
Bayern Munich[159]
2014–15
Bundesliga
26
2
4
0
–
10
2
0
0
40
4
2015–16
Bundesliga
26
0
4
1
–
8
1
1
0
39
2
2016–17
Bundesliga
27
3
3
0
–
7
0
1
0
38
3
Total
79
5
11
1
–
25
3
2
0
117
9
Career total
508
33
50
4
4
0
128
6
11
1
701
44
1 Includes FIFA Club World Cup, FA Community Shield, Supercopa de España and DFL-Supercup .
International [edit ]
Alonso in the starting line-up in Salzburg during UEFA Euro 2008
- As of 18 June 2014[160]
Appearances and goals by national team and year
National team
Year
Apps
Goals
Spain
2003
5
0
2004
11
0
2005
6
0
2006
11
1
2007
6
0
2008
14
2
2009
12
4
2010
16
2
2011
11
3
2012
14
3
2013
3*
0
2014
5
1
Career total
114
16
- the match against away against Equatorial Guinea in November 2013 although included in Alonso’s 114 caps is not considered a full international by FIFA (too many substitutions) but it is official for the RFEF[160]
- Scores and results list Spain’s goal tally first, score column indicates score after each Alonso goal.[155][158]
managerial statistics [edit ]
- As of match played 28 November 2021[161][162]
Managerial record by team and tenure
Team
From
To
Record
Ref
Real Sociedad B
1 June 2019
Present
74
34
18
22
113
81
+32
0 45.95
[163]
Total
74
34
18
22
113
81
+32
0 45.95
—
Honours [edit ]
Liverpool [ 158 ]
Real Madrid [ 158 ]
Bayern Munich [ 158 ]
Spain [ 158 ]
Individual
Decorations
See besides [edit ]
References [edit ]
Read more: Paris Saint-Germain F.C.