Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso has reportedly solidified his ideal managerial path, potentially posing a setback for Liverpool.
Alonso is widely regarded as the leading contender to succeed Jürgen Klopp as the manager of the Reds after the season. Under his guidance, Leverkusen has surged to the summit of the Bundesliga, boasting an 11-point lead over second-placed Bayern Munich before Thomas Tuchel’s team played their postponed fixture on Saturday.
With Tuchel himself seeking a new position this summer, following Bayern’s announcement of his departure at season’s end, Alonso emerges as the favored candidate for that role as well.
The unique challenge for Alonso lies in his past affiliations with both clubs as a player, deciding between them a complex one should he opt to leave Leverkusen.
Adding to the intrigue, Real Madrid has reportedly entered the fray. Christopher Michel, a reporter for German outlet Fussball News, suggests that Real is likely to prioritize Alonso as their top choice to succeed Carlo Ancelotti if the Italian departs after his contract in 2026.
The Bernabeu holds a special allure for Alonso, described as his “absolute dream destination,” fueling speculation that he may remain at Leverkusen until the Real Madrid position becomes available.
Nevertheless, the report highlights that Alonso could opt to commit to either Liverpool or Bayern this summer, both of which would offer consistent Champions League football opportunities. Despite widespread interest in his services, Alonso has chosen to remain tight-lipped about potential moves.
In response to inquiries regarding Tuchel’s impending departure from Bayern, Alonso maintained his stance of discretion, stating, “Maybe you have questions about my future. I have nothing new to say about that. I wanted to say that in advance. Right now, I’m the coach here. That’s for sure. For the future, I have nothing new to say. We’ll see.”
Amid the swirling speculation, one certainty remains – Alonso is a sought-after figure in the managerial realm.
