Xabi Alonso is confident his new deal at Real Madrid won't unsettle Asier Illarramendi.
Illarramendi was seen as Xabi's replacement when doubts over the veteran re-signing were rumbling on.
But with the midfielder penning new terms, Illarramendi may be having second thoughts about his own situation in Madrid.
However, Xabi insisted: "He has come to a big club at a very young age, he has to be like a sponge. He has a bright future. We have a special connection, I see myself in him because we come from the same place and play the same position.
"We can play together in midfield for many years."
