Xabi Alonso addresses Real Madrid rumours – ‘Our bond is very strong…’

Earlier today, reports emerged from Spain suggesting that Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti had decided to step away from his position at the end of the season.

In that scenario, former midfielder and current Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso was said to be the favourite to take over the reins at the Santiago Bernabeu.

While the reports of Ancelotti being ready to leave in the summer have since been downplayed, it is well-established at this point that Alonso is the man being touted to take over from the Italian whenever he opts to move on.

Alonso on Real Madrid links

Xabi Alonso addressed the links with Real Madrid during a press conference ahead of Bayer Leverkusen’s UEFA Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid.

The Los Blancos legend insisted that while his connection with the club remains very strong, at this point, his only focus is on succeeding with the Bundesliga club and he is not thinking about anything else.

“Already questions on Real Madrid?! [laughs] Time goes by but the affection remains,” said Alonso, as quoted by Fabrizio Romano.

“Our bond is very strong, that is clear but my total focus is on Bayer Leverkusen now, that’s in my mind.”

When asked about the rumours again, he added: “I’m calm. I have enough things to worry about, it’s not on my mind right now.”

Alonso has a contract with Bayer Leverkusen that runs until the summer of 2026, much like Ancelotti’s deal at Real Madrid.

As mentioned earlier, the former midfielder has been earmarked as the long-term successor for the Italian tactician. What remains to be seen is whether the change takes place this year or the next.