Real Madrid are poised for a new era under Xabi Alonso, who will succeed Carlo Ancelotti as the manager ahead of the 2025/26 season (h/t Marca).
Having been rumoured for weeks that the former Madrid midfielder is the leading candidate to take up the mantle from Ancelotti, the deal is now coming to fruition.
Alonso has decided to end his association with Bayer Leverkusen after three seasons. He is set to sign a three-year contract with Los Blancos.
Ancelotti’s position came under scrutiny following Madrid’s below-par form this season.
They exited the Champions League in the quarter-finals against Arsenal and lost the Spanish Super Cup and Copa del Rey finals against Barcelona.
Madrid’s chances of winning the La Liga crown are also slim as they trail Barca by four points.
Nevertheless, these results will not take the shine off his incredible achievements in his second stint with the club.
He has led them to two La Liga titles, two Champions League trophies, one Copa del Rey and a FIFA Club World Cup.
Madrid are planning a grand farewell for Ancelotti at the end of the season. He is expected to become the manager of the Brazil national team.
Alonso has helped Leverkusen climb out of the relegation zone and transformed them into one of the top clubs in Europe.
He led Die Werkself to an unprecedented Bundesliga title last season, which ended Bayern Munich’s dominance for a decade.
Although Bayern have reclaimed the title this season, Leverkusen are well-positioned to finish as runners-up an qualify for the Champions League.
