Three clubs are vying for a Bayer coach
Real Madrid court ‘desired solution’ Alonso
05/03/2023, 2:45 p.m
Bayer Leverkusen has to prepare for a lucrative offer for its coach Xabi Alonso. Real Madrid are closely monitoring the development of their ex-professional and are apparently not averse to signing the 41-year-old if Carlo Ancelotti leaves.
After reaching the semi-finals of the Europa League, rumors increased that top international clubs were interested in Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso. The “Sport Bild” reports that the Spaniard is the most serious candidate at Real Madrid, ahead of ex-Schalke player Raúl, if there is a separation from Carlo Ancelotti in the summer. The veteran is being courted by the Brazilian association for the post of national coach. According to the newspaper, Alonso is even President Florentino Perez’s “ideal solution”.
La Liga, Real are hopelessly behind arch-rivals FC Barcelona, but they are up against Manchester City in the Champions League semi-finals and CA Osasuna in the Spanish Cup final. It is an open secret that Real sees its former player Alonso, like FC Bayern Munich, as a coach of the future. Spanish media have also reported on this several times recently.
Meanwhile, the Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf reported that Alonso is now the top candidate for the post at Tottenham Hotspur. Julian Nagelsmann, who was on leave at FC Bayern, was also in discussion for him. In addition, Arne Slot from Feyenoord Rotterdam is said to be a candidate. In Spain, Alonso was also traded as a candidate for Premier League club West Ham United.
The 41-year-old still has a contract in Leverkusen until the summer of 2024. A decision should be made by the end of May. Since taking office in October, he has led Bayer from 17th place in the league to sixth place and to the semi-finals of the Europa League. Leverkusen are currently unbeaten in 14 competitive games. The Werkself are in the semi-finals of the Europa League, where they meet AS Roma (May 11/May 18).