Xabi Alonso, the former Real Madrid and Spain midfield maestro, is on the verge of returning to the Santiago Bernabéu this time as manager. With Carlo Ancelotti set to depart for the Brazil national team after this month’s La Liga finale, Alonso has emerged as the leading candidate to take charge of the Spanish giants.
The 43-year-old confirmed his departure from Bayer Leverkusen in a press conference on Friday, announcing that his final two matches with the Bundesliga club would be this weekend. “The club and I have agreed that these will be my last games as Leverkusen’s coach. Now is the right time to make this decision,” Xabi Alonso stated, choosing not to address the Real Madrid rumors directly. “This isn’t the moment to discuss the future. On Sunday, we want to say a proper goodbye with pride and gratitude for everything we’ve achieved together.”
Xabi Alonso stock rose dramatically last season when he guided Leverkusen to an unprecedented unbeaten Bundesliga title and a Europa League final. Though they fell short of repeating that success this campaign finishing second to Bayern Munich his tactical acumen and leadership have made him one of Europe’s most sought-after coaches.
According to Spanish outlet Marca, Real Madrid have already reached an agreement with Alonso, with the official announcement expected soon. The club’s hierarchy reportedly finalized terms during their Champions League quarter-final clash against Arsenal, though they’ve kept negotiations under wraps while assessing other options.
Ancelotti, who delivered three Champions League trophies across two spells with Madrid, will leave with mixed emotions. Despite a trophy-less season, the Italian could still bow out on a high if Real secure La Liga glory in Sunday’s El Clásico against Barcelona.
For Alonso, the move marks a homecoming and the next step in a rapidly ascending managerial career. After revolutionizing Leverkusen, the stage is now set for him to take the helm at the club where he once dazzled as a player.