Friday 22 July 2016 21:31, UK
Xabi Alonso revealed he cannot wait to see Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola collide in Manchester this season as he gave insight into what it is like to play for the city’s new superstar managers.
The Bayern Munich midfielder is among a select band of players to have worked under both men.
Alonso was a linchpin in Real Madrid's midfield under Mourinho before joining Bayern in 2014 to work under Guardiola.
Both men left favourable impressions on the 34-year-old and he is looking forward to watching them battle it out for supremacy in Manchester this season.
"Personally, they are both very similar in that they are hard workers and extremely ambitious," he said.
"On the football side, they have different approaches and style. What you get with both is huge charisma and leadership.
"It is going to be very exciting to watch them, especially in the same city now. It is a challenge for both to be against each other. I am definitely going to be watching it from here and keeping my eye on what is happening.
"I had the privilege of working with both of them and I have a great relationship with them. There is a lot of hype around them. That is what they come to expect because they are big coaches in difficult jobs which brings a lot pressure.
"But I have big respect for them both and it will be exciting to watch it."
