The Xabi Alonso era has begun at Real Madrid — and it’s brought a significant refresh of the first-team coaching staff. Carlo Ancelotti’s exit to manage the Brazil national team has led to the fellow Italians who assisted him at the Bernabeu leaving too.

Martín Zubimendi has claimed his future remains open despite strong links to Arsenal, and admits new Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso is his "idol."

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has sent his best wishes to former colleague and now the new Real Madrid manager, Xabi Alonso.Alonso will take over from Carlo Ancelotti – who has been