By Samuel A. October 12, 2023
The wonders that Xabi Alonso has worked at Bayer Leverkusen, who remain undefeated this season and are the current leaders of the Bundesliga, have increasingly spark rumours about the managerial future of the former LaLiga winner. The manager reportedly has an affordable release clause in his contract that would allow him to leave the German club and potentially coach one of his former clubs, namely Real Madrid, Liverpool, or Bayern Munich, if they express interest next summer.
Alonso has emerged as the frontrunner to succeed Carlo Ancelotti as the coach of Real Madrid at the end of the 2023-24 season. His impressive performance with Bayer Leverkusen, where he has led the team to the top of the Bundesliga, showcases his immense coaching potential.
While Alvaro Arbeloa, Raul Gonzalez and probably Zinedine Zidane are also considered candidates for the position, it is evident that Alonso’s name generates greater excitement. If all goes as planned, it would come as no surprise to see Alonso occupying the manager’s seat at Real Madrid next season.
Despite Xabi’s contract with Bayer Leverkusen running until 2026, any of these teams would have easier access to the Spaniard and could take on the coach’s services from next summer, when the clause comes into force. The agreed amount for his release is still unknown.
Ottmar Hitzfeld, former coach and winner of two Champions Leagues with Dortmund and Bayern, believes Alonso, despite the aforementioned clause, should be more patient. “It is difficult to say no to Real Madrid if there is really an offer, but my advice to Xabi is that he stays at Leverkusen until 2025.”
“I think he should return the favour to the club for the opportunity to work as a head coach in the Bundesliga”, he continued, “he is still young and can gain a lot of experience here and leave behind something big. That’s why I advise him not to leave after this season, but to stay at least one more year,” Hitzfeld stressed.
Xabi himself had dodged the questions about his future two weeks ago. “It’s too early. It’s September, so it’s not an issue to discuss. I’m still focused. We have started the season well and I have to be the first to stay focused,” he declared, well aware that the sirens will not stop whirring as they already are.
