Real Madrid captain Dani Carvajal has opened up about the managerial transition at the Santiago Bernabeu, comparing former head coach Carlo Ancelotti with new boss Xabi Alonso.
Carvajal, the only remaining veteran from Madrid’s old guard, admitted that Ancelotti allowed players more freedom both on and off the pitch, while Alonso has brought a stricter, more disciplined approach.
Speaking to COPE, Carvajal reflected on the shift:
“Ancelotti has been a legend at Madrid, and he always will be. But I think we needed a change. After so many years, sometimes you need something new to refresh everyone’s mindset. Xabi is a little more upfront, more direct and demanding in terms of discipline, while Ancelotti gave us more freedom, even if he’d get angry at times.”
The Spanish full-back, who played alongside Alonso during the 2013-14 season, believes the change has been positive. He explained that the new approach has “woken up” certain players who may not have been as connected in the past.
Alonso’s reign has already made a strong start. Despite disappointment at the Club World Cup in July, Real Madrid have kicked off their La Liga campaign with three wins from three, sitting top of the table heading into the international break.
Los Blancos return to action on September 13 against Real Sociedad at the Reale Arena, before facing Marseille in their Champions League opener just three days later.
