LEVERKUSEN, The Xabi Alonso era at Bayer Leverkusen is nearing its end, and his Real Madrid chapter may be about to begin.
The Spanish coach announced on Friday that he will step down as Leverkusen manager following the final two matches of the Bundesliga season. Although Alonso did not formally confirm his next role, sources told ESPN that he is close to succeeding Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid.
“It’s always about the moment, and now is the right moment to announce it,” Alonso said in a press conference. “These two games will be my last as Bayer Leverkusen coach.”
A Farewell Built on Glory
Alonso’s impact at Leverkusen has been transformative.
In less than three years, he lifted the club from mid-table to champions, securing an unbeaten domestic double in the 2023–24 season. His tactical vision, discipline, and leadership turned Leverkusen into one of Europe’s most respected sides.
His decision to leave was described as mutual between manager and club. Alonso emphasized that the communication with Leverkusen had always been open, and the timing simply felt right.
Madrid Move on the Horizon
Though Alonso declined to explicitly name Real Madrid during his farewell announcement, the signs are clear.
With Carlo Ancelotti expected to step down after Madrid’s LaLiga finale against Real Sociedad, the 42-year-old former Madrid midfielder is now the leading candidate to take over, marking a high-profile return to the Bernabéu.
Sources close to Madrid indicate that Alonso’s appointment could come swiftly after the league concludes.
Focus on the Fans
Alonso said his attention is now on giving Leverkusen supporters the send-off they deserve.
“This Sunday against Dortmund will be emotional,” he noted. “I want to enjoy the moment with our fans.”
It will be the final home game of a historic campaign, and likely, the end of a remarkable first chapter in Xabi Alonso’s managerial career.
What Happened Next
Alonso’s move was confirmed later that month: Real Madrid officially unveiled him as head coach on a three-year contract running through June 2028, taking over in time for the Club World Cup. The tenure did not run its full course, however. After a 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup and a slide in the LaLiga table, Real Madrid and Alonso parted ways by mutual agreement in January 2026, with former club captain Álvaro Arbeloa installed as his replacement. See how the appointment was first previewed in Ancelotti’s endorsement of Alonso as his successor.
