September 26, (THEWILL) – Xabi Alonso has emerged as the prime candidate to take over the Real Madrid hot-seat when Carlo Ancelotti’s contract expires in 2024. The former Madrid midfielder has seen his stock rise dramatically since taking the reins at Bayer Leverkusen last October.
Alonso oversaw a remarkable turnaround in the club’s fortunes, guiding them to a sixth-placed finish and Europa League qualification against the odds. Leverkusen have carried that form into the new season, highlighting Alonso’s burgeoning managerial pedigree. According to sources monitored by THEWILL, his work has impressed his former employers, who now view him as the ideal successor to Ancelotti.
Ancelotti is expected to leave Madrid when his deal ends next summer, with the veteran Italian set to be appointed Brazil national team boss. Brazilian FA president, Ednaldo Rodrigues, declared Ancelotti their “Plan A” to take over and carry out the ambitions of the national side to win trophies for the football-crazed country.
Alonso enjoyed great success at the Bernabeu as a player, helping Los Blancos to the 2014 UEFA Champions League title during his six-year stint. He also gained further managerial experience with Real Sociedad before joining Leverkusen.
The former Spanish international is held in extremely high regard by Madrid fans and players alike. His profile, combined with his coaching ability, makes Alonso the standout choice to steer Real Madrid into a new era when Ancelotti departs.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
