Xabi Alonso Breaks Silence About Becoming Next Real Madrid Manager

Photo: Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images

Amid growing speculation linking him to the Real Madrid managerial position, Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso has addressed the rumors surrounding his potential return to the Santiago Bernabéu. With Carlo Ancelotti’s future in doubt, Alonso’s name has emerged as a strong contender for the role, but the former Real Madrid midfielder has played down the chatter for now.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference ahead of Leverkusen’s Champions League clash with Atletico Madrid, Alonso laughed off the questions but expressed his enduring connection to Los Blancos.

“Already questions on Real Madrid?! [laughs] Time goes by but the affection remains. Our bond is very strong, that is clear, but my total focus is on Bayer Leverkusen now. That’s in my mind,” Alonso stated.

The Spaniard, who enjoyed a successful playing career at Real Madrid between 2009 and 2014, also added:
“Real Madrid rumours? I’m calm. I have enough things to worry about; it’s not on my mind right now.”

Ancelotti, who signed an extension in December 2023 to remain with Real Madrid until 2026, is reportedly considering stepping down this summer after the FIFA Club World Cup, according to Onda Cero. Speculation about his departure has intensified following Real Madrid’s disappointing performances in key games, including a 5-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final.

Meanwhile, Alonso has solidified his reputation as one of Europe’s brightest coaching talents. Since taking over Bayer Leverkusen in October 2022, he has transformed the team, guiding them to unprecedented success. Under his leadership, Leverkusen won their first-ever Bundesliga title in 2023-24, coupled with a DFB-Pokal triumph and a Europa League final appearance, losing only one game all season.

Leverkusen’s impressive form continues this season, as they remain strong contenders in the Bundesliga, Champions League, and Pokal. Despite the speculation, Alonso appears focused on his current project, with Leverkusen chasing their 13th consecutive victory in all competitions against Atletico Madrid.

While Alonso’s calm dismissal of the rumors may temporarily cool the excitement among Madrid fans, his strong ties to the club and undeniable coaching credentials ensure he will remain a favorite to succeed Ancelotti should the position become vacant. For now, though, Alonso is fully committed to Bayer Leverkusen, leaving Madridistas to wait and see if a return to the Bernabéu is in his future.

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