Bayer Leverkusen CEO Fernando Carro did not hold back when discussing Xabi Alonso’s current situation at Real Madrid, telling Sky Sports: “They’ve left him isolated.”
While some players publicly backed Alonso following the defeat to Manchester City, speculation has grown that he may not have full support within the squad.
Carro, who oversaw Alonso’s successful spell at Leverkusen, contrasted the environment in Germany with that at Madrid.
“We know he’s an immensely talented coach, but he’s operating in a very different context in Madrid,” Carro said. “If the president labels a coach a necessary evil, if he is left politically isolated and constantly bears the brunt of criticism, that is a vastly different situation from what he experienced at Leverkusen. Here, everyone pulls in the same direction, and we never leave the coach isolated.”
The Bayer Leverkusen chief also spoke of the close bond he maintains with Alonso. “During the international break, I spent a weekend in Madrid, and the coaching staff and his family have visited our home twice. We share a very good relationship. Over those three years, we were like a family.”
Carro added: “We follow each other’s matches closely and maintain constant contact. There’s a great deal of mutual appreciation, and we keep in very close touch.”
