Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso is, along with Jürgen Klopp, the leading candidate to succeed Carlo Ancelotti.
Real Madrid have a clear goal of bringing back their legendary player Xabi Alonso as a new manger. The recent Champions League quarter-final defeat to Arsenal has accelerated movements within the White club’s board, which is already considering a change of manager for next season.
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AS writes that Bayer Leverkusen’s manager is the preferred candidate, but also that the German club will not let Alonso, who led the club to a historic season, go so easily. In fact, figures have already been put on the table: to free Alonso, they require between 15 and 20 million euros.
While Madrid analyses the future project, Leverkusen accepts Real Madrid’s interest calmly. It’s no surprise that Xabi Alonso’s name resonates strongly in the Spanish capital, especially after rumours hint at new talks between those closest to him and the White club. The coach’s closest advisor, Iñaki Ibáñez, has resumed contact with the people from Chamartín in recent days.
Real Madrid aim for Xabi Alonso
Although Leverkusen hope that the Basque manager chooses to stay, they have already started exploring the coaching market to prepare for a potential change. They don’t feel betrayed or pressured, but understand that if Real Madrid comes calling, it’s hard to say no.
At Valdebebas, there is agreement on Xabi Alonso’s profile. His familiarity with the club, tactical sense, and immediate success in the Bundesliga make him the ideal candidate to start a new chapter. Now, with the price set by Leverkusen, the next step depends on Florentino Pérez: to decide if this cost is something they are willing to take to bring back one of their most respected former players – this time as manager.
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Xabi Alonso played for Real Madrid from 2009 to 2014 where he helped win both the Champions League and La Liga. (He has also won the Champions League with Liverpool) – The two-time European Championship and one-time World Cup winner with Spain actually started his coaching career as manager of Real Madrid’s U13 venture.
