Xabi Alonso's Real Madrid Return Rumors Squashed by Bayer Leverkusen Chief
In a twist of football fate, recent reports linking Xabi Alonso to a potential return as Real Madrid's manager have been shot down by Bayer Leverkusen's chief, Simon Rolfes. The Liverpool legend, who has only been managing Bayer Leverkusen for less than a year, has been rumored to step into the shoes of his former mentor, Carlo Ancelotti.
Alonso, a two-time European champion with Spain, had an illustrious playing career at Real Madrid, clinching LaLiga in 2012 and the Champions League in 2014 during Ancelotti's previous tenure. Despite Leverkusen's stellar start to the season, which has seen them secure 16 out of 18 points in the Bundesliga, Rolfes remains unworried. This is largely thanks to Alonso's recent contract extension, binding him to the club until 2026.
Rolfes stated, 'We got his commitment a few weeks ago when he extended his contract. Xabi doesn't have to say anything. He has extended his contract. He's fully focused here.'
Alonso, who took over Leverkusen's reins last October when they were second from the bottom, has steered the team to sixth in the Bundesliga and the semi-finals of the Europa League. Leverkusen's strong form continues this season, with only two points dropped, notably in a 2-2 draw with Bayern Munich.
When asked about the Real Madrid rumors, Alonso remained elusive but did not entirely dismiss the idea, saying, 'It's too early to talk about this; we're in September, so it's not an issue to discuss. Both the players and I know how football works, it's not a problem for anyone, and we have not talked about it.'
Despite previous interest from Tottenham, Alonso extended his contract with Leverkusen, securing his presence until the end of the 2025-26 season. Ancelotti, on the other hand, is expected to step down from his position at the end of the current season.
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) president, Ednaldo Rodrigues, has previously announced that Ancelotti is set to lead the national team at the next year's Copa America. In the meantime, Fernando Diniz has taken the role of interim manager while coaching Fluminense.
It appears that for now, Xabi Alonso is fully committed to his current role at Bayer Leverkusen. As for the Real Madrid job, only time will tell if he returns to his former club. The football world eagerly awaits the unfolding drama.
