Xabi Alonso Heading to Real Madrid Through 2028, End of an Era at Bayer Looms
Reports suggest that Xabi Alonso has informed Bayer of his intended exit
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The specter of Xabi Alonso's departure from Bayer Leverkusen continues to hover: Reports suggest that the 43-year-old has sealed a deal to return to his former powerhouse, Real Madrid, on a three-year contract through 2028, as per a "Marca" revelation. However, neither Bayer nor Real has publicly confirmed this assertion.
Sky News indicates that Alonso has already apprised Bayer Leverkusen of his intentions to move on after the current season. According to "Kicker," Alonso relayed his decision to the Bayer squad members in the morning before training. "Marca" states that the announcement won't be made final until the conclusion of the campaign in Spain on May 25. In a jubilant pose, the Basque coach is shown in an accompanying photograph, a smile on his face and a raised right fist. Alonso is said to be bringing along two of his Leverkusen co-trainers, including Argentine Sebastián Parrilla, and his start in Madrid will not begin before the Club World Cup, set to conclude on July 13.
Emotional Farewells Begin
The lack of confirmation has led to a somewhat peculiar departure from the BayArena for Alonso. It's been reported that team captain Granit Xhaka paid a heartfelt tribute to Alonso in a preemptive farewell last week. "No matter what happens, we had a beautiful time," the Swiss midfielder stated, reflecting with a subtle melancholy, "Every team wants a coach like that."
Young prodigy Florian Wirtz, linked with a potential transfer to FC Bayern, has also spoken candidly about the possibility of a change. Alonso took over the Rhinelanders in October 2022 and quickly transformed them into a top European powerhouse, leading Bayer to their maiden championship and DFB Cup last year. Despite missing out on titles this season, the ambitious Leverkusen still qualified for the Champions League as runners-up.
Upheaval Ahead for Bayer
With Alonso's departure, Bayer Leverkusen faces a major makeover, potentially diminishing the team's attractiveness. In addition, the future of Wirtz has yet to be determined, and the imminent departure of defender Jonathan Tah, whose contract hasn't been renewed, has already been confirmed.
According to various reports, Cesc Fabregas leads the pack of potential successors for Alonso. The Spanish World and European champion is currently coach of Como 1907 in Serie A. Erik ten Hag, former Ajax and Man United coach, is also under consideration. Clarity on the situation, however, is expected only after the season draws to a close.
Sources: ntv.de, tno/sid
- Real Madrid
- Football
- Bayer 04 Leverkusen
- Xabi Alonso
Enrichment Insights:- Achievements with Bayer Leverkusen: During his tenure at Bayer Leverkusen, Xabi Alonso led the team to a domestic double in his first full season and broke a Bundesliga record by finishing a season unbeaten. He is widely regarded as the mastermind behind Bayer's rise to prominence.- Original Contract Expiration: Alonso's initial contract with Bayer Leverkusen was set to expire in the summer of 2026.
Xabi Alonsos Zeit bei Bayer Leverkusen brachte Erfolge. In seiner ersten vollständigen Saison führte er das Team zu einem nationalen Double und brach mit einer Bundesliga-Saison ohne Niederlage einen Rekord.[2][3]
Der Vertrag von Alonso bei Bayer Leverkusen lief ursprünglich bis Sommer 2026.[1][2]
- Despite the lack of official confirmation, reports indicate that Xabi Alonso's contract with Bayer Leverkusen will expire on May 25, as he prepares to return to Real Madrid.
- Meanwhile, team captain Granit Xhaka has already bid a preemptive farewell to Alonso, expressing his gratitude for their time together, while young prodigy Florian Wirtz remains uncertain about his future with the team.
- With Alonso's departure imminent, Bayer Leverkusen faces an upheaval, potentially losing key players such as Florian Wirtz and Jonathan Tah, whose contract has already expired.
- Possible candidates to replace Alonso include Cesc Fabregas and Erik ten Hag, although a decision is expected only after the current season concludes.
