Xabi Alonso has confirmed that he will leave Bayer Leverkusen at the end of the campaign, intensifying rumours that he’s poised to take over as Real Madrid’s new manager. The ex-Liverpool and Madrid midfielder led Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga campaign last season, edging out Bayern Munich for the title.
The Spanish tactician has now confirmed his departure after the final two fixtures of the German league.
Alonso said: “This week the club and I have agreed that these two games will be my last two games as Bayer Leverkusen coach. We have been talking during this week that is always about the moment and now is the right moment to announce it.
“We have always had a good and direct communication and now that we have clarity, it is the right moment to say that for sure. It is a moment with mixed emotions but it is the moment to announce it.”
Some reports suggest that Alonso has already agreed a three-year deal to replace Carlo Ancelotti at Madrid. However, He would not comment on a potential move to the Spanish capital.
He continued: “It’s not the moment to talk about the future. Now we know, we want to have a proper farewell on Sunday for some players and for myself. We have to enjoy this moment with mixed emotions.”
It is claimed that Madrid have discussed a departure with Ancelotti after a disappointing defeat by Arsenal in the Champions League quarter-finals.
The Spanish giants have weathered a stormy season, tasting defeat in the Copa del Rey final against arch-rivals Barcelona, who are also on course to snatch the La Liga crown away from them.
Should he step in as manager, Xabi Alonso will face the challenge of rejuvenating a Madrid side left empty-handed this campaign and maximising the potential of their star-studded line-up, which includes the talents of Vinicius Jr, Kylian Mbappe, and Jude Bellingham.
Reflecting on his tenure at Bayer Leverkusen, Alonso shared his heartfelt emotions about steering the squad to both Bundesliga success and German Cup victory.
“For sure it’s emotional, I have spoken with the players and staff and so many people that have helped me during this unbelievable, fantastic three years,” he remarked. “Now it is the moment to share it on Sunday with the fans in this stadium – where I have lived great emotions and where I have become what I am right now.
“I have to be thankful to everyone, from the fans, to the staff and the players. Football is about the moment and this moment is a good one for everyone. Let’s enjoy it for the last moment as much as we have done until now.”
A version of this article first appeared on the Mirror website
