Football player Xabi Alonso announces departure from Bayer Leverkusen at season's conclusion.
In a surprising turn of events, it seems Xabi Alonso is on the brink of returning to his roots. The Spanish press is buzzing with speculation that Alonso, fresh off leading Bayer Leverkusen to an astounding undefeated Bundesliga season and a domestic double, is set to join Real Madrid. If the rumors hold true, he'll be stepping into the shoes of Carlo Ancelotti, who's had a less-than-stellar tenure according to recent reports[1][2][3].
Alonso, who represented Real Madrid as a player, is seen as a strong contender for the role, given Real's ongoing search for a new manager[1][3]. His impressive stint at Leverkusen, guiding the club to heights never seen before - including a first-ever Bundesliga title and shattering the much-maligned 'Neverkusen' moniker - adds weight to these rumors[1].
But before he ventures into the next chapter of his career, Alonso will make sure to savor the moments with his current team. His final game as Leverkusen manager will be against Borussia Dortmund on Sunday, followed by his swan song away at Mainz[4].
"It's a bittersweet time," Alonso said, reflecting on his three memorable years with Leverkusen. "I spoke to the players and the staff this morning, who've stood by me during this incredible, exciting journey. We'll share these feelings with the fans at the stadium on Sunday," he added[4].
Although his Leverkusen side fell short this season, finishing as runners-up in the Bundesliga after a 2-2 draw with Freiburg, they've still managed to secure an impressive second-best points total[4]. Despite exits from the German Cup semi-final by third-tier Arminia Bielefeld and the Champions League at the hands of Bayern, Alonso leaves Leverkusen in a stronger position than when he arrived[2].
Enrichment Data:
- According to reports, Real Madrid has been facing criticism for a disappointing season under Carlo Ancelotti, creating a vacancy for a new manager[1][3].
- Alonso joined Leverkusen in October 2022, at a time when the club was dangerously close to relegation. His stewardship led to significant improvements throughout the season[2].
- Alonso's tenure at Leverkusen saw them reach the Europa League semi-finals in his first season, despite starting off with a fifth-place position[2].
- In the off-season leading up to the 2023-24 season, Alonso made strategic signings, including midfielder Granit Xhaka, striker Victor Boniface, and full-back Alex Grimaldo, contributing to Leverkusen's league and cup double[2].
- In 2025, Xabi Alonso will reportedly exit his successful run with Bayer Leverkusen to return as the manager of Real Madrid, according to confirmed reports.
- Alonso's impressive feats with Leverkusen, such as leading the team to an undefeated Bundesliga season and a domestic double, have sparked buzz in the European leagues and the sports world at large.
- Despite facing criticism in recent years, Real Madrid is believed to have agreed to Alonso's terms, with the Champions League being his potential battleground once again.
- Before leaving Leverkusen, Alonso will coach his team for one last match against Borussia Dortmund, followed by a farewell game against Mainz, a poignant end to his three-year tenure with the club.
- Despite finishing as runners-up in the Bundesliga and falling short in the Champions League and German Cup, Alonso leaves Leverkusen in a stronger position than when he arrived, having transformed the club's standing in the European leagues.
