New Real Madrid signing Xabi: No grudge against Liverpool's Benitez

New Real Madrid signing Xabi Alonso insists he has no grudge against Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez after quitting Anfield this week.

"I have repeated over and over again that the relationship was a professional one, of mutual respect, a normal one between coach and player," he said.

"I respect him and thank him for the opportunity he gave me. The goodbyes were quite brief, everything happened very quickly and I didn't have time to say goodbye properly."

"I want to return to say goodbye to my team-mates and Rafa."

"As everything was very quick I hardly had time so as soon as I can I will say goodbye as I should have done."

Alonso added: "I want to thank them for everything they gave me but now I am starting a new stage in my career."

"I'm very excited."

"Five years is a big deal in club like Liverpool. I learnt a great deal, had a great experience, played in the Champions League every year and won one. I'm arriving at Madrid more mature and with more experience."