Xabi Alonso once ruled the Santiago Bernabéu with his intelligence, elegance, and unmatched passing range. A fan favorite, a midfield general, and a true professional. But what if the next time he walks onto the pitch, it’s not in a Real Madrid jersey—but in a suit, as the club’s head coach?

That possibility is rapidly becoming a reality.

With Carlo Ancelotti’s contract winding down and Real Madrid plotting the next era of dominance, the name at the top of Florentino Pérez’s list is clear: Xabi Alonso. This isn’t a new plan—it’s been brewing for months. Now, with Bayern Munich and Premier League giants already rebuffed in the past, the door is wide open for Madrid to make their move. And the best part? Bayer Leverkusen won’t stand in Alonso’s way.

Let’s explore why the 42-year-old is the perfect man to take the reins—and how his staggering success in Germany has only strengthened his case.

Xabi Alonso’s Rise as a Manager: From Midfield Maestro to Mastermind

Appointed as Bayer Leverkusen manager in October 2022, Alonso inherited a struggling squad. What followed was nothing short of a footballing miracle.

In less than two years, he transformed the club into a powerhouse, delivering:

• Bundesliga Title 2023–24: Leverkusen went unbeaten—a first in club and league history.

• DFB-Pokal Champions: Their first cup triumph since 1993.

• Europa League Finalists: A dramatic run ended just short of European glory.

• DFL-Supercup Winners: Kicking off the season with silverware.

Key Stats at Leverkusen:

• Games Managed: 136

• Win Rate: 62%

• Unbeaten Run: 51 consecutive matches across all competitions—a European record.

• Style of Play: High pressing, quick transitions, and total team fluidity.

Alonso didn’t just win games—he built a machine. Players improved under him. The club played exciting, modern football. And he did it all with grace, never losing the calm and charisma that defined his playing days.

Real Madrid’s Plan: Clear, Calculated, and Waiting

Real Madrid’s interest in Alonso isn’t based on sentiment—it’s strategy. The club knows the DNA he carries. He’s a Madridista at heart, a European champion, and someone who knows the pressure, the standard, the expectations.

According to reports, the club has had Alonso as its top priority to succeed Ancelotti for months. While no formal approach has been made, the feeling is mutual. Alonso turned down interest from both the Premier League and Bayern Munich last year—believing that Real Madrid might soon come calling.

What’s Next?

Bayer Leverkusen CEO Fernando Carro has confirmed a “gentleman’s agreement” is in place. If Real Madrid makes their move, the club will not block Alonso’s path.

“If a team in which Xabi Alonso has played comes, we would sit down to talk and we would not prevent him.” — Fernando Carro, Leverkusen CEO

And with Leverkusen preparing for next season, they too want clarity. It’s likely a decision will come soon—possibly before the Euros kick off.

Final Word

A return to Real Madrid would feel like destiny for Xabi Alonso. But this isn’t just about nostalgia. It’s about evolution. A former player, now a visionary coach, ready to take the club into a new chapter.

If Real Madrid wants to blend tradition with innovation, glory with style, and leadership with class—then they know there’s only one man to call.

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