Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso credits John Toshack's faith for shaping his career

Alonso, who played for Liverpool, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich before guiding Bayer Leverkusen to their first ever Bundesliga title in 2024 before moving to coach Real Madrid, said in an interview with the Daily Mail that Toshack's belief in him as a teenager was the turning point.

"I would not have had the success I have had if it was not for John Toshack," Alonso said. "I was on loan in the Spanish second division when he called me back to play for Real Sociedad and the team were not in a good situation. I was 19, but he said: 'I have the confidence in you that you can help turn this season around.' Since he put that confidence in me I have never looked back."

Toshack, who enjoyed success as a striker with Cardiff City and Liverpool in the 1970s, became equally renowned as a manager. He famously led Swansea City from the Fourth Division to the First, before taking on roles across Europe, including Spain, Portugal and Turkey, and later coaching in Africa.

In Spain, Toshack is remembered most for his time at Real Sociedad, where he trusted young players and gave Alonso his debut. That decision launched the Basque midfielder's rise to becoming a Champions League winner, European champion and World Cup winner with Spain.

Alonso's respect for Toshack has remained evident throughout his coaching career. Since taking charge of Real Madrid in the summer of 2025, Alonso has spoken about the importance of trust in young players, echoing the philosophy that Toshack showed him.

Los Blancos are preparing for their return to La Liga after the international break, with Alonso keen to build on his bright start at the Bernabéu.

"Toshack showed me what it meant for a manager to truly back a young player," Alonso said recently. "That lesson has stayed with me in everything I do as a coach."