Carlos Sainz has commented on Fernando Alonso suggesting he could return to Formula 1 in 2020.
The two-time world champion, who left his seat at McLaren at the end of last year, claimed it would be his "greatest joy" to come back and fight for a third title.
However, Sainz, who will replace his hero and mentor at the British team this season, isn't reading too much into Fernando's words.
"It's too early to judge whether he will return to Formula 1. He's only just left," he was quoted at an event in Madrid this week
This year Alonso will concentrate on goals elsewhere, including an attempt to complete the Triple Crown by winning the Indianapolis 500 in May.
The 37-year-old also recently added another landmark win to his resume at the Daytona 24 Hours as part of a four-driver line-up.
"I am impressed with what he has been doing, but honestly I am not surprised because I know what he can do," Sainz added.
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The former Red Bull stable member then switched attention to his year ahead and spoke of the optimism surrounding the new McLaren car, which is set to be unveiled on February 14.
"The new regulations open the door to teams that had a very bad time last year," he said. "I have seen the car in the factory and I really like the design, even though it was only the engine and chassis that I saw.
"It is very elaborate and very different at first sight, I like it. I've seen images of the design and the aerodynamics and I like it a lot, the really important thing now is the test results and that I like to drive it a lot.
"2018 was a year of reflection for the team but they have learned what was wrong and are trying to return to where they were years ago," Sainz continued.
"There now has been a restructuring and the result will be seen in the medium term. Everything will be ready to start the testing. I think it's going to be a good year for McLaren and for me"
