Real Madrid’s Fede Valverde explains difference between Xabi Alonso and Carlo Ancelotti

Real Madrid midfielder Fede Valverde has highlighted the differences between current manager Xabi Alonso and his predecessor Carlo Ancelotti.

Alonso took over from Ancelotti as Real Madrid’s manager a few weeks ago after leaving Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga. Ancelotti departed to become the head coach of the Brazil national team.

After Real Madrid’s 3-1 win over Pachuca in the FIFA Club World Cup on Sunday, Valverde shared his thoughts on how Alonso’s approach differs from Ancelotti’s.

“Difference between Ancelotti and Xabi? Xabi asks us midfielders to have more control,” said the Uruguay international (via 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 will face RB Salzburg next in the Club World Cup on Friday, June 27.