Xabi Alonso’s Calm Amid Real Madrid Speculation: A Deep Dive into the Coaching Carousel

Xabi Alonso’s Calm Amid Real Madrid Speculation: A Deep Dive into the Coaching Carousel

In the ever-dynamic world of football, where rumors and speculations are as common as the game itself, Xabi Alonso finds himself at the center of attention. The former Real Madrid player, now a successful coach, has been linked with a potential return to the Bernabéu, a prospect that has fans and pundits buzzing. Yet, Alonso remains unfazed, maintaining a calm demeanor amidst the swirling rumors.

Alonso, who spent a significant part of his playing career at Real Madrid, is currently in the Spanish capital for a different reason. He is leading Bayer Leverkusen in their Champions League clash against Atlético Madrid. Despite the high stakes of the match, the spotlight has shifted to his potential future role at Real Madrid, especially with the uncertainty surrounding Carlo Ancelotti’s tenure.

According to a report by the Spanish radio station Onda Cero, Ancelotti, who is under contract with Real Madrid until 2026, might be considering an early exit this summer. However, sources close to Ancelotti have denied these claims, insisting that the Italian coach is not planning to leave prematurely. Nevertheless, ESPN has reported that Alonso is the favorite to take over when the time comes.

In a recent interview with Movistar, Alonso addressed the rumors with a composed response. “I’m very calm, I’m focused on what I have to do,” he stated. “I have enough things to worry about. Right now that’s what’s in my head. This is the time now to work with Leverkusen, with the team, with all the challenges we have, and I’m very happy.”

Alonso’s journey from a celebrated midfielder to a promising coach is noteworthy. He joined Real Madrid from Liverpool in 2009, where he achieved significant success, including winning the Champions League, the LaLiga title, and two Copas del Rey. After leaving Madrid in 2014, he continued his playing career at Bayern Munich.

Upon retiring as a player, Alonso transitioned into coaching, starting with Madrid’s under-14s. He then took charge of Real Sociedad‘s reserve team before moving to Bayer Leverkusen. His coaching prowess was on full display when he led Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga title in the 2023-24 season.

Real Madrid has been closely monitoring Alonso’s progress, viewing him as a leading candidate to succeed Ancelotti. Ancelotti, who returned to Madrid in 2021, has had a successful stint, winning two Champions Leagues and two league titles. Despite the team’s current top position in LaLiga and two trophies this season, they have faced criticism, particularly after a 5-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Supercopa final earlier this month.

Meanwhile, Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen is performing admirably, sitting second in the Bundesliga, four points behind Bayern Munich, and fourth in the Champions League table ahead of their game against Atlético. When asked about his long-term aspirations, particularly regarding a potential coaching role at Madrid, Alonso remained focused on the present. “Thinking in the long term in football just means worrying about things,” he said. “I have to focus on the short term, which is Atleti, then we go to Leipzig [in the Bundesliga], I have enough.”

• Alonso’s calm amidst speculation highlights his focus and dedication to his current role.
• Real Madrid’s interest in Alonso underscores his growing reputation as a top-tier coach.
• Ancelotti’s future at Madrid remains uncertain, adding intrigue to the coaching landscape.

As the football world watches closely, the question remains: Will Xabi Alonso eventually return to Real Madrid, this time as a coach? Only time will tell, but for now, Alonso’s focus is firmly on Bayer Leverkusen and their immediate challenges.