In an interview with France Football, Xabi Alonso heaped praise on the two French players who ply their trade at Real Madrid squad, particularly Karim Benzema whom he referred to as "an exquisite footballer."

Alonso analysed the mark that his time in England has left on his game and on him personally: "Football is a contact sport and I'm not afraid of using my foot when necessary, but always with style."

Regarding the reasons behind the delay in his renewal, he said: "I want to be sure that I am well physically. The pubis injury dragged me down last season. I didn't choose the easiest route. It had nothing to do with money or desire. I asked myself "are you willing to spend two more years here? When the answer was yes, it was easy to renew."

The Basque midfielder also talked about what his return to the team has meant for Carlo Ancelotti: "We are well organised on the pitch, even the forwards help us which makes it much easier to control the game from the midfield. Our work benefits the defenders and leaves them less exposed."

"Of course," he continued, "it means the goalkeeper has less pressure and so he concedes less goals. This positive influence of one line on another provides balance which is going to be essential from April onwards when all the key fixtures kick-in: the quarterfinals of the Champions League, the final of La Copa and the home stretch of the Liga. If there are only seven players defending, it won't be enough. We must defend and attack all together."