Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso has downplayed rumors linking him to Real Madrid, stating that it is “not a good time” to discuss his future as his team chases Bundesliga glory.
The 43-year-old Spaniard has emerged as a reported candidate to succeed Carlo Ancelotti, should the Italian depart at the end of the season.
“It’s not a good time to discuss the future. We’re at a very important moment in the season,” said Alonso. His Leverkusen side currently sits six points behind Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich with just five games left, keeping their title hopes alive.
Alonso’s reputation as one of Europe’s brightest managerial talents has soared following an extraordinary 2023/24 season, where he guided Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga title and their first German Cup victory.
Having taken over a struggling side in 2022, Alonso transformed the club’s fortunes, and speculation over a potential move to Real Madrid has intensified.
Leverkusen chief executive Fernando Carro recently reassured fans, stating that Alonso is “comfortable” at the club and already preparing for the next campaign.
However, Real Madrid’s interest has sparked further intrigue, as the former Los Blancos midfielder enjoyed a trophy-laden six-season spell as a player at the Bernabeu, winning La Liga and the Champions League.
Alonso is not the only manager linked to the Spanish giants. Former Liverpool boss Jürgen Klopp has also been rumored as a potential candidate, though Klopp’s agent affirmed the German is “very happy” in his new role as head of global soccer at Red Bull.
