Xabi Alonso Indicates No Immediate Decision Needed on Leverkusen Future, Unlike Last Year
In contrast to the situation a year ago, Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso currently faces no pressing offers from rival clubs that would require immediate decisions regarding his future with the German side.
"The situation is a different one," Alonso explained during a press conference on Thursday. "At the time, there was something to decide. This time there isn't. That's the big difference."
Last March, during the international break, Alonso found himself weighing his options as both Bayern Munich and Liverpool—two of his former clubs as a player—expressed interest in hiring him as their new head coach. However, the Spanish tactician ultimately chose to remain with Leverkusen, a decision that paid tremendous dividends as he guided the club to its first-ever Bundesliga title while maintaining an unbeaten league record, followed by German Cup success to complete a historic domestic double.
Alonso's current contract with Leverkusen runs until 2026. His impact at the club has been remarkable, having taken over in October 2022 when Leverkusen was struggling in the Bundesliga's relegation zone. Since then, he has transformed them into champions.
The team's only defeat last season came in the Europa League final against Atalanta, which ended their remarkable 51-game unbeaten streak across all competitions. Following such an exceptional campaign, this season has presented new challenges. Currently, Leverkusen sits six points behind Bayern Munich with eight Bundesliga rounds remaining, while still defending their German Cup title with a semifinal against Arminia Bielefeld scheduled for Tuesday.
Despite consistent links to other top European clubs, particularly Real Madrid—where he also played during his illustrious career—Alonso remained focused on his current responsibilities.
"My thoughts are the same, like I said before, I'm staying focused on this season. That's the most important thing," Alonso stated. "We're at an important stage and we don't want to speculate. We don't want to think about other things than football."
Alonso continues to be among the most highly regarded coaches in European football, with many viewing him as a potential successor to Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid. However, for now, his attention remains firmly on Leverkusen's current campaign and immediate challenges rather than on speculation about his future.
