After an incredible season at the helm of Bayer Leverkusen, the Spanish maestro finds himself at a crossroads – does he return to his roots at Liverpool, stick with Bayern Munich, or wait for the Real Madrid job to open up? Reports in every country suggests that the Spanish maestro chose one of the local clubs to coach next season. However, none of these “supposed” reports are yet to be confirmed.
So What will the Spaniard’s next move be? Xabi Alonso’s Next Destination: A Man in Demand!
Bayer Leverkusen’s Incredible Season
One of the main reasons every club in the world is going after Alonso is because of what he was able to achieve so far with Leverkusen, both domestically and in Europe. After some nail-biting matches, highlighted with a derby win at Cologne, a dramatic late draw in their Europa League round of 16 first leg away at Qarabağ, an even more dramatic comeback to win at home to Qarabağ after trailing 0-2 and scoring 2 late goals in the 93rd and 97th min, and then see off Freiburg 3-2 on Matchday 26 to move 10 points clear of defending champions Bayern, Alonso’s side have now extended their run to 38 so far. If that’s not impressive, I don’t know what is!
On top of that, they are also through to the DFB Cup semi-finals, with the possibility of completing the treble still alive (Bundesliga – DFB Pokal – Europa League). Will they be able to make it a reality? It’s also worth mentioning that the nickname “Neverkusen” did not come out of nowhere, as the German side never won the league before, having finished as runners up 5 times! So one must wonder, if Alonso dominated the Bundesliga with Leverkusen on “hard” mode, why would he choose to do it again with Bayern on “easy” mode?
Staying Put At Bayern Munich
Bayern will finally put an end to a disappointing experience with Thomas Tuchel at the helm, who will part ways with Die Roten after a miserable season, ironically thanks to Alonso’s Leverkusen. That being said, Sky Sport Germany reporter, Florian Plettenberg, recently claimed that Alonso would pick a move to Bayern Munich over Liverpool. Florian is also the one who reported the Kane to Munich transfer in the early stages, could he make it 2/2?
On the inside, the Bavarians honorary president Uli Hoeness has claimed that his club is working on a deal to secure Alonso for next season. In a recent interview the German legend said: “He has proven that he can be a coach for the really big teams and it will be much more difficult because clubs like Liverpool, Real Madrid, Leverkusen [to keep him] and also FC Bayern are working on it. There’s hardly a coach who is suitable and is currently free.” Can they secure the signing?
The Liverpool Connection
For many, Liverpool holds a special place in Xabi Alonso’s heart. With iconic moments and a deep connection to the club, a return to Anfield seems like a romantic notion. One of the main areas where Liverpool can surpass Bayern to convince Alonso to join is Stability. The Reds would offer the Spaniard greater structure than Bayern, who have been in complete chaos since before Tuchel took over. Former boss Julian Nagelsmann clashed with key figures such as Manuel Neuer, while Sadio Mane was involved in a physical altercation with Leroy Sane. A change in board members has prompted no result either, as shown by the last-minute fumbling of Joao Palhinha’s deal from Fulham in the summer.
beIN Sports presenter Richard Keys is claiming that Alonso has decided to return to Liverpool over Bayern. He admits that things could go wrong in the process but has hinted that he expects the Spaniard to be in place on Merseyside next season. Should Alonso decide to join the Reds, he would inherit a young and talented group of players that would make it “easier” to work with than Bayern’s superstars. Which road will he choose?
The Real Madrid Dream
Then there’s the tantalizing prospect of returning to Real Madrid, this time as a manager. With Ancelotti’s future uncertain, Alonso could be eyeing the hot seat at the Santiago Bernabeu. The allure of leading his beloved Los Blancos to glory could be too tempting to ignore. But is he willing to wait for the opportunity, or should he strike while the iron is hot? Would it be a step too soon for the Spaniard?
The Decision Awaits
As Xabi Alonso contemplates his next move, the footballing world eagerly awaits his decision. Will he choose the emotional pull of Liverpool, the elegance of Bayern Munich, or the dream of managing Real Madrid? Whatever path he chooses, one thing’s for sure – Alonso’s impact on and off the pitch will continue to inspire generations of football fans around the globe.
So what’s your take on his next job? Should he go back to where it all began, stick with the familiar, or hold out for a dream move? Where would you prefer to see him next season?
For the latest news, visit my blog or follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and X.