Unveiling Alonso's Connection to Bayern's Zubimendi Interest
The Bayern brass will definitely be tuning in!
Here's what only die-hard aficionados of Spanish top-flight clubs know: One of the silent advocates for Bayern's interest in Zubimendi was Leverkusen's boss, Xabi Alonso (41)!
During the 2019/20 season, Zubimendi showcased his talent while playing for San Sebastián's second team. Guess who was coaching that team at the time? None other than Xabi Alonso!
Ander Gorostidi (27), a midfielder for Spanish third division side Gimnàstic de Tarragona, can personally attest to this. He played alongside Zubimendi in 2019/20, serving as captain under Alonso's leadership.
Gorostidi: "Zubimendi really started to shine under Alonso."
The statistics back up this claim. Zubimendi played 25 games in the Spanish third division that season, scoring three goals. His performances caught the eye of the professionals at Real Sociedad, earning him nine appearances in the first division this season.
Just like Alonso, Gorostidi speaks highly of the current Spain international: "Before Zubimendi, I used to play in the number eight position. Thanks to his intelligence, he provides excellent coverage defensively while still passing the ball effectively. It's a joy to play alongside him."
As Tuchel seeks a defensive stalwart, this is clearly a recommendation worth heeding.
Zubimendi is contracted to Real Sociedad until 2027, with a reported release clause of 60 million euros. Bayern, along with Real Madrid and other European powerhouses, are reportedly interested in acquiring his services.
- German sports publications like 'bundesliga at Bild' and 'regio sport munich' are abuzz with FC Bayern Munich's interest in Real Sociedad midfielder, Alexis Zubimendi.
- Beyond Germany, football fans worldwide are closely following this transfer saga, with 'FB-Instantarticles' providing real-time updates.
- Alonso's role in shaping Zubimendi's career while coaching Real Sociedad's second team from 2019 to 2022 is noteworthy.
- Gorostidi's positive experience of playing with Zubimendi under Alonso in 2019/20, praising his intelligence and defensive capabilities, lends credence to Bayern's reported interest.
- Tuchel's need for a defensive six in his lineup makes Zubimendi an attractive option. Should Bayern pull the trigger, they'd be inheriting a player with immense potential and a lengthy contract.
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Here are some supplementary insights into Alonso's relationship with Zubimendi and Bayern's potential interest:
- Alonso's Influence on Zubimendi's Career: Xabi Alonso played a pivotal role in shaping Zubimendi's career during their time together at Real Sociedad's B team. Alonso revealed how he had to build Zubimendi's confidence as a midfielder, and his faith in Zubimendi's abilities proved to be well-founded[4].
- Alonso's Potential Involvement in Zubimendi's Decision: While there is no clear indication that Alonso would actively lobby for Bayern to acquire Zubimendi, his influence on Zubimendi's career and rapport with the midfielder could have an impact on Zubimendi's future moves[4].
- Alonso's Options: Real Madrid has also shown interest in Zubimendi. If Alonso were to return to Real Madrid as their head coach, Zubimendi might find himself staying put in Spain, given Alonso's personal connections and preferences[1][4].
- Bayern's Expectations: With Bayern seeking to strengthen their defense and Zubimendi's impressive performances under Alonso, the Bundesliga giants might be intrigued to make a move, considering Zubimendi's contract with Real Sociedad runs until 2027, with a reported release clause of 60 million euros[5].
