Former Real Madrid manager Fabio Capello has issued a stark warning to Xabi Alonso as the Bayer Leverkusen coach prepares to take over at the Santiago Bernabeu this summer.

Alonso, who recently announced his departure from Bayer Leverkusen, is widely expected to replace Carlo Ancelotti as Real Madrid's head coach in June. Ancelotti will be leaving to take up the role of Brazil's national team coach.

Speaking on El Partizado de Cope, Capello emphasized the unique challenges that come with managing the Spanish giants. "Xabi Alonso has done some great things. That may be true, but managing Real Madrid is completely different," Capello said. "It's something else. It is more difficult and more important."

Capello speaks from experience, having had two spells in charge of Real Madrid. The Italian tactician won LaLiga titles in both his stints at the club in 1997 and 2007. Despite securing the league title in his second spell, Capello was controversially sacked after just one season in June 2007.

The 78-year-old's comments highlight the immense pressure and high expectations that come with managing one of the world's most prestigious football clubs. Real Madrid is known for its demanding environment, where success is not just expected but required.

Alonso, a former Real Madrid midfielder who played for the club from 2009 to 2014, has impressed in his managerial career at Bayer Leverkusen. His understanding of Real Madrid's culture as a former player could prove valuable, but as Capello suggests, the managerial role presents an entirely different set of challenges.

The transition is expected to take place in June, giving Alonso time to prepare for what will undoubtedly be the biggest challenge of his coaching career so far.