The Spanish Coach Confirms His Bayer Leverkusen Departure. Is a Santiago Bernabéu Return Next on the Agenda?
Xabi Alonso has officially announced that he will part ways with Bayer Leverkusen at the end of the 2024-25 season. Probably, setting the stage for what could be a blockbuster return to Real Madrid. The Spanish tactician made the announcement during a press conference on Friday.
He confirmed that the final two Bundesliga games of the season will be his last in charge. Alonso mentioned, “This week, the club and I have agreed that these last two games are going to be my last as Leverkusen coach. Now is the right moment to announce it.”
Alonso, 43, has decided to depart after nearly three seasons with the German side. He joined in October 2022 when Leverkusen were battling relegation. He took the club to new heights since then and has left behind a remarkable legacy. This includes a historic domestic double in the 2023-24 season, where his side went undefeated in the Bundesliga.
Under Alonso’s leadership, Leverkusen evolved into a powerhouse. They won the Bundesliga, the DFB-Pokal, and the German Supercup in 2024. The turnaround was nothing short of miraculous. Alonso transformed a struggling team into champions and title contenders across all competitions. Talking about it, Alonso said:
“It’s been an unbelievable, fantastic three years. We can be proud of what we have achieved. We’ve been taking the club in the right direction.”
Also Read: Florian Wirtz Hints at Exit: Man City, Bayern, and Real Madrid on Alert
Leverkusen confirmed the news via their official website, stating that Alonso had requested to terminate his contract early. His original contract was to last till 2026. However, the club granted his wish. They also noted that a successor will be announced soon.
Though Xabi Alonso remained tight-lipped about his next destination, speculation is mounting. According to multiple reports, Alonso is ‘close’ to be appointed as Real Madrid’s next head coach. The current Los Blancos boss Carlo Ancelotti is expected to step down after Madrid’s final LaLiga match.
Also Read: Harry Kane Finally Lifts First Career Trophy As Bayern Munich Win Bundesliga
The timing aligns with Madrid’s preparations for the FIFA Club World Cup in June, where they will debut against Al Hilal in Miami. However, whether Alonso will take charge of the club in time for that remains unclear. When he was asked jokingly about his US visa status, he replied, ‘No idea’.
Alonso’s coaching journey began at Real Madrid’s academy. Now, his possible return to the Spanish capital has fans buzzing. Not only because he is one of Madrid’s former iconic midfielder, but also because his potential appointment could steer Los Blancos to the right direction. Especially considering this season has not gone well for them.
soccer
