Xabi Alonso

“I know what my strengths and weaknesses are on the pitch. My duty is to be risk averse.”

“Being a manager is so different to being a footballer. It's a very difficult job, but, of course, it's very exciting as well.”

“The grass, the sound of the ball, the jokes with my teammates - that's what I will miss most. That is what fulfills you most on a daily basis.”

“Neuer is by far the best keeper I've played with and is also outstanding outfield.”

“You need to have the same ideas to work as a team, to have a good team spirit. And you don't get there in a day or even a month. It takes some time to get there.”