Real Madrid are set to announce the appointment of Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso as their next manager, with the 43-year-old expected to sign a three-year deal to replace the outgoing Carlo Ancelotti.
The decision to part ways with Ancelotti was reportedly made after Real Madrid’s Champions League quarter-final defeat to Arsenal last month.
Club officials met with the 65-year-old Italian and reached an amicable agreement to end his tenure. Despite a decorated second spell at the Bernabeu, where he won two LaLiga titles and two Champions League crowns, this season’s shortcomings proved decisive.
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Farewell at the Bernabeu scheduled for May 25
According to Marca, Ancelotti will bid farewell to the fans at the Santiago Bernabeu following Madrid’s final LaLiga fixture of the season against Real Sociedad. His departure clears the path for Alonso, a former Madrid midfielder who made 236 appearances for the club, to return in a managerial capacity.
Alonso arrives after historic season with Leverkusen
Alonso’s appointment follows an exceptional season with Bayer Leverkusen, where he led the German side to Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal triumphs, suffering just one defeat all season—in the Europa League final against Atalanta. His achievements earned him the Bundesliga Coach of the Season award and the 2024 Globe Soccer Award for Best Coach of the Year.
Trusted backroom staff to follow Alonso to Madrid
Joining Alonso at Madrid will be his assistant Sebas Parrilla and fitness coach Alberto Encinas, key figures in Leverkusen’s recent success. Alonso’s first match in charge is expected to come during the FIFA Club World Cup in June.
Madrid eye minor reinforcements under new regime
While Alonso will contribute to transfer discussions, the club will retain overall control of recruitment. Sources indicate that no major overhaul is planned, though Real are targeting reinforcements at centre-back and in midfield.
Ancelotti leaves with legacy of silverware
Ancelotti, who returned for a second spell in 2021, leaves having won 15 trophies over both tenures, including three Champions League titles. Though linked with the Brazil national team, he is reportedly considering a lucrative €50 million offer from Saudi Arabia.
Alonso begins third managerial chapter
Alonso, who began his managerial career with Real Sociedad B, joined Leverkusen in 2022. He has taken charge of 138 games, winning 88, a win rate of nearly 64%. His return to Real Madrid marks the start of a new era, as the club looks to bounce back from a trophyless season domestically.
