Xabi Alonso to Leave Bayer Leverkusen at Season's End Amid Real Madrid Links
Xabi Alonso has officially confirmed he will leave Bayer Leverkusen at the end of the 2024–25 season, in a move that has electrified the football world—especially with Real Madrid poised to welcome him back as their next head coach.
The 43-year-old Spaniard, who took over Leverkusen in October 2022, orchestrated a remarkable transformation. Under his leadership, the club rose from the brink of relegation to clinching their first-ever Bundesliga title in 2023–24—without losing a single league match. Leverkusen also captured the DFB-Pokal and reached the Europa League final, making Alonso one of Europe’s most sought-after tacticians.
Although his contract was set to run until 2026, Alonso had a gentleman’s agreement allowing him to leave for one of his former clubs—Real Madrid, Liverpool, or Bayern Munich. Real Madrid, where Alonso spent five seasons as a player, is now widely expected to be his next destination. The Spanish giants are preparing to part ways with Carlo Ancelotti after their final home match on May 25 against Real Sociedad.
Alonso reportedly broke the news to his players in an emotional meeting before training on Friday. His final game in charge will be against Borussia Dortmund on May 17—a fitting send-off for a coach who brought glory and history to Leverkusen.
As for Leverkusen, the post-Alonso era looks uncertain. The club is now searching for a new manager, with names like Erik ten Hag and even former midfielder Cesc FÃ bregas being considered. They're also bracing for potential player exits, including star midfielder Florian Wirtz, wanted by Bayern Munich, and defender Jonathan Tah, set to leave on a free transfer.
From midfield maestro to managerial marvel, Alonso’s next chapter could begin where his legacy as a player peaked—in the white of Real Madrid.
No comments:
Post a Comment