[Real Madrid](https://www.managingmadrid.com) midfielder Fede Valverde raved about Xabi Alonso for the support and confidence he has given him in the first few weeks as Real Madrid coach.
He talked about Alonso’s characteristics as a manager and as a person, and he said good things that would make every fan excited for what is to come.
He said: “The important thing is that Xabi gives me a lot of confidence, a lot of support and he’s always there with me. He was constantly encouraging me when I missed the penalty. I stay with those things.”
Valverde also talked about Alonso’s words about him, comparing him to Steven Gerrard and saying how important it is for every coach to have a player like Valverde.
He said: “It’s an honor. It’s beautiful to have your coach say those words about you. I’m happy, and this helps me to keep working and continue being an example for all my teammates and the team. Being an example of working, making an effort, always being available to do what the team, and especially the coach, wants.
“Receiving those words from a person like him, who is not only our coach but what he was as a footballer, is something very important & beautiful for me.”
Finally, Valverde talked about what Alonso wants from him on the pitch, to which he said: “\[He asks\] that I have a lot of control, patience, trying to attack the spaces, and I continue to contribute with what I know.”