I would be mad if i say that Xabi Alonso wouldn’t be missed if (and what looks like happening) he leaves, but then we can always go and explore the past. Michael Owen left, Djibiril Cisse, Luis Garcia, Antonio Nunez, Josemi, and yes, Xabi Alonso arrived. All (in my opinion) who were unknowns in 2004, have now a Champions League Medal hanging somewhere in their house.
We should take the positives out of this, the reports that link Aquilani with a Melwood presentation are becoming more day after day, while Lee Cattermole and Michael Turner also set for an Anfield move.
We will miss you Xabi, but shame on you. We wanted you to stay, Torres, Carragher and even the one that people blame for this, Rafa said they want you to stay, LFC fans sung with all their heart when you played in Singapore. You are not following your heart, i guess the Madrid bench is warmer then ours.
Good luck Xabi with the Newcastle United team or anything similar to that you will be playing with in 2010/11.
Keep your hands off Lee Catermole!!! just kidding Xabi is a great player but Rafa manages to come with the goods from somewhere, good luck for next season mate
Gutted;(
dear wish him luck.he served well,Reds dont curse even those who betray….we have to go on…..YNWA
I’m disappointed too, but let’s be fair to Alonso:
Unlike Owen, he has been up front about his plans – he was pretty clear that he wanted to go to Madrid. He hasn’t run his contract down, pretending to sign and then leaving aruptly for a large signing-on bonus.
Also unlike Owen, Liverpool seemed pretty well prepared to sell him last summer in return for Gareth Barry. He fought for his place, and kept it, turning in a brilliant season. He has shown as much (more?) loyalty to LFC as LFC has shown towards him.
Lastly, let’s remember, he is from Spain. Imagine if a 24-year old from, let’s say, the north east of England, got a break to play in Spain and built such a reputation for himself that Liverpool or United came in for him. Of *course* he would want to prove himself in his own league. It’s only natural.
I am really sad to see him go, but he has always been a class act. As for the idea of him joining United on a free in 5 years’ time… I do hope not.
Patrick
p.s. Djibril Cisse was certainly not “unknown” in 2004. We had tried to sign him in 2003 and he was already a full French international and the top striker in Ligue 1.
Good luck Xabi with the Newcastle United team or anything similar to that you will be playing with in 2010/11.
Amen!
The last time we let someone go the Real we won the Champion’s league, does that mean now that two players will go there we are going to win two trophies?
Please note that i am not blaming Xabi for handing in a transfer request, i am just saying that he can be replaced.