Real Madrid’s new boss?: Xabi Alonso’s journey at Leverkusen is expected to come to an end following their Champions League exit

Xabi Alonso is reportedly set to leave Bayer Leverkusen in the upcoming summer. (Image credits - FMT, License Details)

Xabi Alonso’s iconic journey at Bayer Leverkusen is expected to come to an end amidst strong links to Real Madrid since last summer. 

As per multiple reports, Alonso’s chances of leaving the reigning Bundesliga champions have increased following their early elimination from this season’s UEFA Champions League. 

On top of that, as mentioned in our previous report, the Spanish manager’s contract at Bayer Leverkusen includes a clause that will allow him to leave the club in the summer of 2025.

An incredible legacy: Xabi Alonso's record-breaking stint at Leverkusen

Xabi Alonso is considered one of the best managers in the modern-day game because of his legendary run with Bayer Leverkusen so far. 

The Spaniard even received a standing ovation from the fans at the BayArena despite their disappointing exit from the Champions League. Such is the legacy that Alonso has built.

The incredible story began when Xabi Alonso was appointed as Bayer Leverkusen’s manager back in 2022, during the time when the German champions were battling relegation. 

Because of Xabi’s inexperience, the decision of his appointment did raise some eyebrows, with many stating he was too young and not skillful enough for this role.

However, he proved everyone wrong, as not only did Xabi help survive that season, but also guided them to a historic unbeaten Bundesliga season, leading the club to their first-ever league title.

The 2023/24 season was an absolute fairytale for the Leverkusen fans, as on top of their team’s historic Bundesliga title, they also witnessed their side win the DFB Pokal trophy and also secure a position in their first-ever European final in the UEFA Europa League last season.

Xabi Alonso has established a unique playing style at Leverkusen, which is a mixture of different strategies and philosophies.

The legendary Jose Mourinho once said that Xabi Alonso would become a fantastic manager due to his experience under great tacticians such as Carlo Ancelotti, Pep Guardiola, and Rafa Benitez. 

After looking at Xabi Alonso’s historic stint at Bayer Leverkusen, it is fair to say that the “special one” was yet again accurate with one of his predictions.

Alonso's potential next destination

Since last year, Xabi Alonso has attracted a lot of interest from many European giants, namely Real Madrid, Manchester City, and even Liverpool. 

However, at this point in time, Liverpool appear quite satisfied with their new manager, Arne Slot, who has done a sensational job in his very first year with the mighty Reds. 

On the other hand, Manchester City does look like a suitable destination for the Spanish manager, as a young manager like him will suit the club’s long-term project. 

However, despite their horrible campaign this season, it seems almost impossible that Manchester City would be planning to move on from Pep Guardiola, who has stated that he plans on staying at the club beyond the current season, which automatically closes the doors for any other manager.

As a result, what has always looked extremely likely to happen, Xabi Alonso seems destined to become Real Madrid’s next manager, being tipped to replace Carlo Ancelotti to cater to the Los Blancos’ long-term requirements.