Alonso and Arbeloa to face off as Premier League managers

Former Liverpool manager Rafael Benítez has commented on the managerial careers of his former players, Xabi Alonso and Álvaro Arbeloa, ahead of their upcoming Premier League matchup. Arbeloa, managing Fulham, will host Alonso’s Chelsea this Monday.

Benítez noted that while he expected Alonso to become a manager, Arbeloa’s transition was a surprise. The two former teammates, who played together for seven years at both club and international levels, are now managing clubs located only two miles apart in England.

Arbeloa previously rose through the Real Madrid academy to replace Alonso at the Spanish club last season. Despite their upcoming rivalry on the pitch, the two remain close friends.