REAL SOCIEDAD
Xabi Alonso off to a flying start at Real Sociedad reserves
Xabi Alonso's Real Sociedad B side are leading their Segunda B group and are playing some excellent football under the former Real Madrid man.
Real Sociedad's excellent start to the season has everyone talking about Martin Odegaard and Mikel Oyarzabal. Imanol Alguacil has the team purring and with youth and ambition on his side, they dream of a tilt at European football. But while the first team continues to grab headlines, they have not forgotten about their academy and Xabi Alonso's presence with the reserves is evidence of that.
If the first team are in fashion, the 'B' team are playing just as well. After six game, they lead Group II of the Segunda B with 14 points. They haven't been beaten yet either. Athletic Bilbao sit just behind them in the table with one point less. The football on display has been magnificent with Bilbao winning 5-0 last time out against Osasuna B and Real Sociedad's reserves beating Barakaldo 0-5.
More than the points gathered, the style and chemistry on display for Real Sociedad is incredible. The eulogies for Alonso's style of play have not been in short supply and the team likes to hold the ball for long spells with patience to wait for gaps to open up. The former central midfielder leaves no stone unturned and works on the finest details of every aspect of play. The first goal was a set play, the third was a header from a corner, another a penalty and the other came from high pressure up the field. Total football.
Where will Xabo Alonso's career take him?
Rumours swirl surrounding Xabi Alonso's future and he has been linked with a move to Real Madrid as part of a superstar ticket including other former players. He makes it clear, however, that he is only concentrating on the here and now. "I want to focus on the present," he said. "I don't know what will happen next season or the following one. My objective is to enjoy my career, I can't control where I will go."
There was no lack of offers, but he explained why he picked Real Sociedad: "I am very excited and really want to help the future of this club. It is the best place where I can be. I feel at home here."
He is happy and so are La Real as it is their best start to a Segunda B season since, funnily enough, his father coached the team in 1990/91. At the time, Unai Emery and Alguacil were in the team. It's Alonso's job to look after the likes of Roberto López, Zubimendi, Gorostidi and company. Under Alonso, the rest will take care of itself.