“Xabi Alonso will continue his successful way with Bayer Leverkusen and in the future, he’ll be able to coach any team” – Iker Casillas

365Scores’ Mohamed Abo Leila interviewed former Real Madrid and Spanish National Team legend, Iker Casillas, after Euro 2024 and ahead of the upcoming season.

Greetings Iker, tell us, did you expect Spain to win the Euros? Is the team capable of continuing this great form till and at the World Cup in 2026?

Casillas: “Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph was fueled by a dominant possession-based style and we saw that especially in the win against Germany that came after a very tight game. Spain has a new golden generation of talents which will promise great matches in the future”.

What do you think of the Kylian Mbappé deal… and could his huge salary spark a crisis within the club?

Casillas: “Mbappé has joined his dream club and his welcome celebration in a full Bernabeu stadium was outstanding and reminded us of Cristiano Ronaldo’s. We’ve heard that Mbappé received a signing fee of €150 million to be spread over the five-year term of his contract and several bonus payments which is not influencing the salary structure of Madrid. His basic salary seems to be near the salary of other players with €15 million to €20 million net per year”.

What’s your opinion on the goalkeepers’ dilemma at Real Madrid. Do you prefer that Lunin continues with Courtois or should they try to sign Kepa?

Casillas: “There is no crisis or dilemma, Real Madrid will have an outstanding team next season, the goalkeepers’ position included”.

Will Real Madrid continue dominating the Spanish League due to Barcelona’s financial crisis or will the competition between them continue in the new season?

Casillas: “We always hope for good competition as competitive matches are great for all fans loving football. Girona which is part of the City Football Group and Atletico Madrid may show great performances as well”.

You have a good relationship with Xabi Alonso. Does Xabi Alonso’s personality qualify him to coach Real Madrid in the future?

Casillas: “We think that Xabi Alonso will continue his successful way with Bayer Leverkusen and in the future, he’ll be able to coach any team. Maybe in Spain, maybe in England or even remain in Germany”.

Mohamed Abo Leila is available on X at @Abolila87.