Courtois: "I like Xabi Alonso very much and I like his way of working"

Real Madrid goalkeeper Courtois praised Xabi Alonso's management and work ethic, predicting he will succeed at Chelsea after leaving the club.

Courtois spoke with Sky Sports about his time at Real Madrid and several key figures in his career. On Xabi Alonso's departure from Real Madrid and move to Chelsea, Courtois expressed admiration for the manager, saying: "I like Xabi Alonso very much and I like his way of working.

I think he is an excellent coach, and what he has done at Bayer Leverkusen is outstanding. I think he will ultimately do very well at Chelsea too."

Courtois reflected on Alonso's time at Madrid, noting that when results aren't good, the manager is often the first to pay the price. He also discussed his relationship with José Mourinho, recalling an amusing anecdote about ignoring a message from Mourinho when he first arrived at Real Madrid due to being on a flight during the World Cup.

The goalkeeper also praised young teammate Jude Bellingham's first season at the club, calling him an excellent player and good friend, and expressed continued affection for Chelsea despite the manner of his departure, believing they will finish in the top four of the Premier League this season.