Xabi Alonso

Xabi Alonso moved to Real Madrid from Liverpool in the summer transfer window in 2009. His move followed much speculation about where he would be playing the 2009-10 season. Alonso is not thought to have wanted to leave Liverpool, but felt forced out due to differences with manager of Liverpool Rafael Benitez.

Real Madrid paid what is rumoured to be £30 million for the services of Xabi Alonso – making him one of the world’s most expensive footballers.

Alonso wears the number 22 jersey at Real Madrid.

Despite Xabi Alonso’s transfer to Real Madrid, he is still thought to be a Liverpool supporter and was sighted at Anfield during a Liverpool game against Arsenal.