Alonso ahead of game against former club FC Bayern: ‘The time there had a great influence on me’

Xabi, you’re up against Bayern Munich for the first time as a coach on Sunday, the club you played at for three years?

Alonso: I have great memories of my time in Munich. It will be great to meet up with old friends and acquaintances but I’m fully focused on the game.

Is there something special about your time at Bayern as a player that you particularly like to look back on?

Alonso: I like to remember the years in Munich. It was a special time from the first to the last day. My farewell as professional football player happened there and it was something special for us all. The memories are very positive.

You played alongside some of the current players. Does that make it easier to prepare for Sunday’s game?

Alonso: No. They are all brilliant top players and they are in a strong phase at the moment. I do know them but that doesn’t make it easier. Our aim is to stop their players and make the game as difficult as possible for our opponents.

Can you give the players some tips about the crucial points in playing Bayern?

Alonso: Yes, of course I can do that, but it’s always easier to say these things than to do them. We will do our best.

Joshua Kimmich is playing in your former position. Do you see similarities between you and him?

Alonso: In terms of position, yes. When I saw Joshua for the first time, I knew he had a great future just based on his style of play, his personality and his character. He has developed really well. His passes are special, the way he distributes the ball as well as his vision on the pitch. I like the way he plays. He’s a super player in the way he presents himself.

What was the main reason for you to accept a job as a coach in the Bundesliga?

Alonso: That has to do with my experience as a player in the Bundesligas and the final years I spent at FC Bayern. The time had a great influence on me. I knew it would be a good step for me in my coaching career and I’m very happy at Leverkusen.

What do you think is possible at Bayer 04 Leverkusen this season?

Alonso: A lot is possible. It’s down to us. We always expect the best from ourselves. We want to improve every day in the Bundesliga and in the Europa League.