Xabi Alonso’s transformative tenure at Bayer Leverkusen will conclude at the end of the current campaign. The former midfield maestro will depart after guiding the club to unprecedented domestic dominance, sparking widespread speculation about an emotional return to Real Madrid. The Bundesliga champions have honored Alonso’s request to terminate his contract — originally set to run until 2026 — marking the end of a golden chapter in Leverkusen’s footballing history.
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Unprecedented Glory Under Alonso’s Command
Alonso’s stint in Germany redefined Leverkusen’s identity. From perennial dark horses to invincibles, the club lifted the Bundesliga title without tasting defeat, clinched the DFB Pokal in Berlin, and secured the 2024 Supercup. With silverware in hand and global admiration earned, Bayer’s management reflected on a spell of pure excellence.
“Together with Xabi Alonso we have written a success story just through winning the league title without defeat in a way not seen in German football,” said Werner Wenning, chair of the shareholders committee at Bayer Leverkusen. “He was an outstanding ambassador at all times as coach both for our club as well as for the whole Bundesliga. Therefore, we are very grateful to Xabi Alonso.”
Legacy Built on Style, Belief, and Results
Fernando Carro, the club’s CEO, praised the mark Alonso leaves behind. “Bayer Leverkusen have achieved lasting recognition in the football world through the targeted success under Xabi Alonso. Bringing the Meisterschale to Leverkusen unbeaten plus winning the DFB Pokal, reaching the Europa League final and winning the Supercup makes us very proud,” he stated.
Simon Rolfes, the sporting managing director, labeled the Spaniard’s leadership as transformational. “Together with Xabi, we have put together a team that has impressed the whole football world through quality on the pitch and mentality. We are proud of the big steps forward and the standing of the club today and wish Xabi all the best in his future roles. I’m sure our paths will often cross again.”
Alonso’s Farewell: A Journey Remembered
For Alonso, this decision marks the close of a phenomenal first chapter in his managerial journey. Humble yet proud, he expressed heartfelt gratitude. “I owe great thanks to Bayer Leverkusen, my players and staff, all the employees of the club and last but not least the fantastic fans. Our success was the result of an outstanding team performance,” Alonso reflected.
“This club, who showed exceptional trust in me, very much deserved to win the German league title for the first time. My thanks and admiration go to everybody who helped to make this triumph happen including the DFB Pokal win in Berlin. Bayer Leverkusen are ready for the future. The positive path will continue and I will be excited to follow it.”
Eyes on the Bernabéu: Real Madrid Calling
Alonso’s departure paves the way for a potential high-profile return to the Santiago Bernabéu. Real Madrid’s current boss, Carlo Ancelotti, is widely expected to take charge of Brazil’s national team. Talks between the Italian and the Brazilian Football Confederation have reportedly resumed, intensifying speculation about a managerial vacancy in Madrid.
Ancelotti, still under contract until 2026, could bid farewell after potentially guiding Real Madrid to another LaLiga crown. With four matches left, Madrid trail leaders Barcelona by just four points — a colossal Clásico on the horizon could decide the championship.
Despite the swirling rumors, Alonso remains tight-lipped about what lies ahead. “When the season is wrapped, then it will be the moment for the next thing. Not the moment for that,” he said, refusing to overshadow Leverkusen’s current objectives with transfer talk.
What’s Next for Both Sides?
Leverkusen will announce Alonso’s successor “at the appropriate time,” according to official statement. Replacing a tactician who combined tactical acumen with charismatic leadership will be no small feat. Meanwhile, Alonso seems poised to return to Real Madrid, a club where he enjoyed great success as a player.
Florentino Perez and the Real Madrid board have reportedly softened their stance on Ancelotti’s release. With the Brazilian FA eager to confirm their new coach, an announcement is expected soon. All signs suggest that Madrid could install Alonso as their next head coach early next week, completing a full-circle moment for the former Los Blancos midfielder.
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FAQs
Why is Xabi Alonso leaving Bayer Leverkusen?
Xabi Alonso requested to terminate his contract early after leading Bayer Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga title, aiming for a return to Real Madrid.
When will Xabi Alonso leave Bayer Leverkusen?
Xabi Alonso will step down at the end of the 2024 season, following the final match against Mainz on May 17.
Did Bayer Leverkusen win any trophies under Xabi Alonso?
Yes, Bayer Leverkusen won the Bundesliga, DFB Pokal, and the German Supercup under Alonso’s leadership.
Is Xabi Alonso set to join Real Madrid?
Xabi Alonso is widely expected to become Real Madrid’s next manager after Carlo Ancelotti’s anticipated exit.
Who will replace Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen?
Bayer Leverkusen have not yet announced Xabi Alonso’s successor as head coach.
