Bayern Munich midfielder Xabi Alonso has admitted that he “misses” Real Madrid and expects the club to still be competing for trophies at the end of the season.

The 34-year-old surprisingly left the Santiago Bernabeu for Bavaria in the summer of 2014, having played a key role for Los Blancos in their triumphant pursuit of a 10th European cup only months prior, and he remains full of praise for his former club.

“[Madrid] are a great team, with great players in all positions,” he told GQ.

“They have experience and good foundations. Despite their bad start, I’m sure they’ll be fighting for everything at the end of the season.

“Rafa Benitez is a methodical and analytical Coach but couldn’t imprint his touch on the whole squad.

“Of course I miss Real Madrid. They were five very good years.

“I felt recognised, valued and respected there, and that’s very important to me.”

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