Real Madrid have been strongly linked with a move for Xabi Alonso amid increasing doubt over Carlo Ancelotti’s future, and now the Spaniard has confirmed he will be leaving Bayer Leverkusen this summer
Xabi Alonso has confirmed he will leave Bayer Leverkusen at the end of the season, amid huge speculation he is set to become the next Real Madrid boss. The former Liverpool and Madrid midfielder has done wonders with the German side – guiding them to an unbeaten season in the Bundesliga last term as they pipped Bayern Munich to the title.
Now the Spaniard has confirmed the final two games of the German top flight season will be his last with the club.
Speaking at a press conference, Alonso said: “This week the club and I have agreed that these two games will be my last two games as Bayer Leverkusen coach. We have been talking during this week that is always about the moment and now is the right moment to announce it.
“We have always had a good and direct communication and now that we have clarity, it is the right moment to say that for sure. It is a moment with mixed emotions but it is the moment to announce it.”
Despite reports that Alonso has already signed a three-year deal with former club Madrid, he refused to discuss where he was heading next and said it was time to enjoy his remaining matches with the team.
“It’s not the moment to talk about the future. Now we know, we want to have a proper farewell on Sunday for some players and for myself. We have to enjoy this moment with mixed emotions.”
It’s understood Bernabeu chiefs have already met with Ancelotti following the club’s disappointing Champions League exit against Arsenal in the quarter-finals and agreed to part ways.
Madrid have suffered a difficult season that has seen them lose the Copa del Rey final to bitter rivals Barcelona, who also look set to pip them to the La Liga title.
Should he take over, Alonso will be tasked with bringing success back to the club after a trophyless season and bring the best out of their superstars like Vinicius Jr, Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham.
When asked about his time at Leverkusen, Alonso said he was emotional after guiding the team to both the Bundesliga and the German Cup.
“For sure it’s emotional, I have spoken with the players and staff and so many people that have helped me during this unbelievable, fantastic three years,” he added. “Now it is the moment to share it on Sunday with the fans in this stadium – where I have lived great emotions and where I have become what I am right now.
“I have to be thankful to everyone, from the fans, to the staff and the players. Football is about the moment and this moment is a good one for everyone. Let’s enjoy it for the last moment as much as we have done until now.