Who is Xabi Alonso supporting for the UCL final?
In an interview with 'XO', Xabi Alonso struggled to pick an allegiance ahead of the Champions League final, having played for both Liverpool and Real Madrid during his illustrious career.
The former central midfielder said: ''I am supporting both. For Madrid they can win for a third time in a row, it's a great chance. For Liverpool, after so many years to be back in the final it means so much for the club and the supporters.''
''Whatever happens, I will be really happy. I feel really attached to both Liverpool and Madrid. I have always tried to make an impact wherever I have been. All the clubs, they have made an impact on me and part of my heart belongs to all of them so I am very grateful.''
Alonso was a crucial member of the Liverpool squad in 2005 as they clawed their way from 3-0 down to defeat AC Milan in the Champions League final. The Spaniard scored the equaliser that saw the Reds go on to win on penalties.
He recalled: ''When we got into the tunnel, we could hear the Liverpool fans so that gave us a big boost. It was unbelievable to see them. So we thought, if they believe we have to believe.''
''In the changing room, everything went through [our heads]. Some of the players were really depressed. We were trying to cheer it up and say 'we might have a chance, it's so difficult but why not - we can't waste this chance'. So, at the end it was a miracle.''