After a disappointing exit from the Champions League at the hands of Arsenal, Real Madrid is reportedly weighing significant changes within its coaching staff. According to renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano, Xabi Alonso, the current manager of Bayer Leverkusen, is the leading candidate to take over the reins at the Santiago Bernabéu.
The Real Madrid board has been contemplating this move for some time, although no official offer has been made as of yet. Romano further noted that Bayer Leverkusen is not expected to obstruct Alonso's departure, as the club acknowledges his desire to return to Spain, despite him having turned down offers from the Premier League and Bayern Munich.
Xabi Alonso, who took charge of Bayer Leverkusen in October 2022 after a stint with Real Sociedad B, has made a remarkable impact in the Bundesliga. In his inaugural season, he transformed a team languishing in the relegation zone into Europa League qualifiers. The following season saw him lead Leverkusen to an undefeated Bundesliga title, marking the club's first national championship in history. Under his guidance, the team also clinched the DFB-Pokal and reached the Europa League final. Currently, Leverkusen sits in second place in the Bundesliga, although they faced elimination in the Champions League round of 16 against Bayern Munich.
Meanwhile, speculation surrounding Carlo Ancelotti's future at Real Madrid is intensifying. The Athletic reports that Ancelotti is increasingly likely to leave the club, with rumors suggesting he may take the helm of the Brazilian national team, a position that has been vacant since Dorival Júnior's dismissal in March 2025. Ancelotti is exploring various career paths, including the possibility of remaining at Real Madrid in a different capacity, but his primary ambition appears to be leading the Brazilian side.
In addition to the coaching situation, Real Madrid is also eyeing young talent Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen. According to Bild, if Wirtz opts for a transfer, the Spanish giants are his preferred destination, ahead of other suitors like Manchester City and Bayern Munich. The potential arrival of Alonso as coach could further influence Wirtz's decision, as he considers Madrid to be his top choice.
Wirtz, despite being just 21 years old, is already regarded as one of the most valuable players in European football. His contract with Bayer Leverkusen runs until June 2027, but interest from clubs like Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich could complicate his future. The German midfielder's exceptional talent has made him a focal point in the upcoming transfer window, and Alonso's potential departure could lead to a significant shift in his career.
Fernando Carro, the CEO of Bayer Leverkusen, has publicly stated that it is highly likely Wirtz will remain with the club, emphasizing that he is under contract until 2027. However, the allure of playing for a club like Real Madrid, particularly under a coach like Alonso, could prove irresistible. Bayern Munich is also keen on reuniting Wirtz with fellow young star Jamal Musiala, and Uli Hoeness has been vocal about the club's financial readiness to make a significant signing.
Hoeness remarked on Bayern's financial health, stating, "Bayern is in good economic shape. We could make a big signing if we wanted to." He also acknowledged his close relationship with Wirtz's family, mentioning that he has previously provided advice on sponsorship matters.
On the other hand, Manchester City is another serious contender for Wirtz's signature. With Kevin De Bruyne's potential departure looming, City sees Wirtz as the perfect fit to fill a creative void. Reports indicate that the Premier League club could be willing to offer up to 150 million euros for the young midfielder, although no official release clause exists in his contract.
While Real Madrid appears to be taking a patient approach in their pursuit of Wirtz, he undoubtedly fits the profile that club president Florentino Pérez typically seeks: young players with Ballon d'Or potential and significant resale value. As the transfer window approaches, the dynamics surrounding Wirtz's future will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike.
In summary, Real Madrid is at a crossroads, contemplating major changes in both its coaching staff and player roster. With Xabi Alonso potentially stepping in as the new head coach and the club eyeing Florian Wirtz as a key signing, the coming weeks promise to be pivotal for the Spanish giants. As the situation develops, all eyes will be on the Santiago Bernabéu to see how these high-stakes decisions unfold.
