Leverkusen want clarity as Real Madrid close in on Xabi Alonso

With just weeks left in the season, Bayer Leverkusen are urging Xabi Alonso to clarify his future. The 42-year-old, whose rapid rise on the touchline has caught Europe’s attention, is at the centre of a tug-of-war between continuity in Germany and a potential fairytale return to Real Madrid.

“We need clarity,” says Leverkusen CEO

“Xabi is central to our long-term vision. That’s why we need clarity before the campaign finishes,”

explained Leverkusen CEO Fernando Carro, speaking at the Laureus World Sports Awards in Madrid. He stressed that the club’s entire recruitment and development plan for next season hinges on Alonso’s continued presence.

Real Madrid’s growing interest

Alonso’s tactical transformation of Leverkusen — from mid-table stagnation to Bundesliga title contenders — hasn’t gone unnoticed. At the Bernabéu, with Carlo Ancelotti expected to depart for the Brazil national team, Alonso has emerged as a leading candidate for the hot seat.

Sources close to the club suggest Real Madrid have been monitoring Alonso since last autumn. While no formal contact has been made, it is widely believed that President Florentino Pérez sees Alonso as the long-term successor to Ancelotti — much like Zidane once was.

No clause, but an open door

Despite speculation about a release clause, Carro clarified the nature of Alonso’s contract:

“There’s no formal clause, but there’s a gentleman’s agreement. If one of his former clubs — Madrid, Liverpool, Bayern or Sociedad — comes calling, we’ll talk.”

Behind the scenes: Talks already began

According to sources within Leverkusen, initial discussions with Alonso were held during the March international break. Both parties agreed not to let the situation drag into summer — a scenario that could disrupt pre-season plans.

Silence breeds speculation

However, Alonso’s recent reluctance to comment has raised eyebrows. After the 1–1 draw with St. Pauli, he offered only a guarded reply:

“It’s not the right time. I don’t want to talk about the future.”

This stands in stark contrast to sporting director Simon Rolfes’ confident tone just weeks ago: “He’s staying. His contract is valid. Nothing has changed.”

From quiet rebuild to tactical masterclass

When Alonso took over in 2022, Leverkusen were 10th. Now, they are second — 12 points clear of third and within striking distance of Bayern. His fluid 3-4-3 system, reliance on positional play, and player development (such as Wirtz and Frimpong) have elevated the team into Europe’s elite.

The verdict approaches

Leverkusen have put their cards on the table. Real Madrid are circling. The football world is watching. For Alonso, the next step could define a managerial legacy just as iconic as his playing career.

When the call comes from Madrid — will he answer?