Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso has spoken to journalists for the first time since signing his new two-year deal at the club and said he never looked for any reason to leave the Spanish capital.
The 32-year-old was linked with a number of clubs in recent months including former side Liverpool and Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea. But the experienced midfielder put pen to paper on a contract extension to remain at the Santiago Bernabeu until 2016.
Speaking to the media, Alonso, who has enjoyed a glittering career on the international stage too, said he feels at home in Madrid. “Real Madrid is the best place I could be. I feel at home here,” he stated. He added: “There was no reason to look for alternatives. There have not been any offers because I decided I wanted to be here.”
When asked about the key factors in his decision to stay, Alonso said Carlo Ancelotti had played a big role and that their relationship was key. “He was a midfielder and knows what this position means. It has been very important and I thank Ancelotti for his words and support,” he said.
Having signed the deal, Alonso said he is focusing on securing more silverware with Los Blancos. He said: “I won the Champions League with Liverpool but I want to win it with Real Madrid.”
