When asked if he might succeed Carlo Ancelotti as coach of Bayer Leverkusen, Xabi Alonso responded that he has a “unforgettable” bond with Real Madrid.
According to Spanish media, Ancelotti has made the decision to leave his position as manager of Real Madrid at the end of the current campaign, and Leverkusen manager Alonso is the front-runner to succeed him.
Throughout the previous season, Alonso was connected to the Madrid position as his team won the DFB-Pokal, advanced to the Europa League final, and lost to Atalanta in their lone loss of the season. The team also marched towards the club’s first-ever Bundesliga title.
Many consider the former midfielder, a gifted coach who played for the team for five years, to be Ancelotti’s obvious successor. However, the Spaniard says he will not talk about his future while the current campaign is still in progress.
When asked about rumors that he was linked to Real Madrid, he told reporters, “I can’t say anything, we’re in the middle of a season and all the clubs have big goals.” Time goes by over the years, but the love [for Madrid] never fades. Because of the close tie, that friendship is valued and will always be remembered. As a player, it was a really pleasant stage; those were years of incredible intensity. We had a hard time getting what we wanted, and when we did, it was much celebrated.
“I’m not bothered by the speculation, nor have I prepared it, nor am I surprised by it,” he continued. We’ve had enough of the match against Atleti, which is why I’m anxious.”
By leading his team to victory over Atletico Madrid in the Champions League on Tuesday, Alonso may further improve his standing with the Bernabeu club.
