Xabi Alonso Confirms Bayer Leverkusen Exit for Real Madrid Role

Xabi Alonso has officially confirmed his departure from Bayer Leverkusen at the end of the season, paving the way for his anticipated return to Real Madrid as head coach.

The Spanish tactician, who guided Leverkusen to an unbeaten domestic double and their first-ever Bundesliga title, made the announcement ahead of the club’s final home game of the campaign. Despite a near-perfect season, the team narrowly missed out on European glory after falling short in the Europa League final.

Speculation has swirled for months linking Alonso to the Santiago Bernabeu, especially following a turbulent season for current Real boss Carlo Ancelotti. Now, it appears the transition is imminent.

“This week, the club and I agreed these will be my last two games as Leverkusen coach,” Alonso stated during a press briefing on Friday. “This is the right moment to announce it because we’ve always had good communication with the club.”

With emotion in his voice, Alonso continued: “We have to enjoy this moment with mixed emotions. I spoke to the players and staff—it was not easy. We’ve had a great connection, and that’s been the key. They believed in me and followed me. I want to have a proper goodbye this weekend.”

Since taking charge of Leverkusen, Alonso has managed 138 games, securing 88 victories and maintaining a win rate of 64 percent. He was named Bundesliga Coach of the Season and earned the 2024 Globe Soccer award for Best Coach of the Year.