Xabi Alonso Signs with Real Madrid through 2028: Bayer Leverkusen Braces for Turbulent Future
Bayer Leaves Prepared for Xabi Alonso's Departure: Reports indicate Alonso has communicated his intentions to leave the club.
Social Media News You Need: Xabi Alonso Moving to Real Madrid Reports are buzzing in the soccer world: Xabi Alonso is leaving Bayer Leverkusen for a three-year stay at Real Madrid! While not officially announced yet, "Marca" reports indicate that the 43-year-old has joined the royal family[1].
Smiling and pumped, the new Madrid savior stands in a victorious pose on the cover of "Marca". The popular Spanish paper gleefully announces the upcoming collaboration between Xabi and the Royal House[1]. Though Bayer and Real have yet to confirm the news, it's speculated that Alonso will be replacing Carlo Ancelotti at his former club[1].
Sports Basque Whispers: Xabi's Journey from Leverkusen to Madrid Alonso's departure was said to have been already conveyed to Bayer Leverkusen, according to Sky[2]. As "Kicker" reports, he shared the decision with his Bayer teammates before morning practice[2]. The formal decision, however, should only be made on May 25, according to "Marca", when the Spanish season wraps up[2]. Two of his coaches from Leverkusen, including Argentina's Sebastián Parrilla, are expected to follow him[1]. Alonso's official start at Madrid will happen after the Club World Cup, which is scheduled until July 13[2].
Bayer's leaders, Fernando Carro and Simon Rolfes, had been pressuring Alonso for quick decisions due to the uncertainties created ahead of the new season[2]. Despite a contract extension until 2026, Alonso evaded loyalty statements and repeatedly deflected questions about his exit[2]. The transfer to Madrid may be a foregone conclusion[2]. His potentially last home game would be against Borussia Dortmund on Sunday at 3:30 PM, showing on DAZN and NTV.de[2].
Bayer's Unsettling Departure
The departure of Alonso from BayArena may turn out to be a bit unusual, if reports are accurate[2]. Already, Bayer's leader Granit Xhaka offered a touching farewell greeting to Alonso, albeit with a restrained sense of nostalgia[3]. "Regardless of what happens, we had a great experience," said Xhaka with a grin, "Every team wants a coach like that."
Wirtz's Future Remains Murky
While Alonso leaves, the fate of exceptional talent Florian Wirtz remains uncertain[3]. Speculation about Wirtz joining Munich's Bayern is persistent[3]. Adding to the turmoil, defender Jonathan Tah's departure, as his contract expires with no renewal, is already finalized[3].
While the leadership of Leverkusen is prepared for the changes ahead, potential successors to Alonso's position have not been officially named yet[3]. According to media rumors, Cesc Fabregas (38) is at the forefront[3]. Former managers such as Erik ten Hag (55) are also mentioned[3]. Clarity on this matter is expected post-season[3].
Sources:
[1] "Xabi Alonso: Nach Playerenphoto 'Marca' über bevorstehende Vertragsunterzeichnung," NTV.de, 2023-05-15.
[2] "Nach Wochen der Spekulation scheint der Transfer von Xabi Alonso zu Real Madrid gedone zu sein - beim Bayer Leverkusen ruht die offizielle Erklärung noch," Kicker, 2023-05-15.
[3] "Bayer Leverkusen bricht auseinander," Süddeutsche.de, 2023-05-15.
- Real Madrid
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- Bayer 04 Leverkusen
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- Despite the expiring contract of Xabi Alonso at Bayer 04 Leverkusen, reports suggest he will move to Real Madrid through 2028, replacing Carlo Ancelotti.
- After informing his Bayer teammates, including coaches Sebastian Parrilla and Simon Rolfes, of his decision, Alonso's start at Real Madrid is expected to begin following the Club World Cup, which concludes on July 13.
- Interestingly, Xabi Alonso's departure from BayArena may turn out to be somewhat unusual, as it remains unofficial and has led to a turbulent future for Bayer 04 Leverkusen.
- While the leadership of Leverkusen is yet to officially name a successor to Alonso, media rumors suggest Cesc Fabregas is at the forefront, with former managers like Erik ten Hag also mentioned as potential candidates.
