Xabi Alonso’s Future Uncertain as Bayer Leverkusen CEO Confirms Exit Clause with Former Clubs
Bayer Leverkusen CEO Fernando Carro has confirmed that head coach Xabi Alonso has a “gentleman’s agreement” in place that could allow him to leave the club should a managerial offer come from any of the teams he once represented as a player — a list that includes Real Madrid, Liverpool, Real Sociedad, and Bayern Munich.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Carro said that while Leverkusen hope to continue their successful partnership with Xabi Alonso, they are also realistic and prepared for any outcome in the coming weeks.
“We have a gentleman’s agreement, and if a team he’s played for comes along, we can sit down,” Carro explained.
This revelation comes amid growing speculation surrounding Alonso’s potential appointment at Real Madrid, following the club’s early exit from the UEFA Champions League and a below-par LaLiga campaign.
A Clause Built on Trust and Transparency
Carro emphasized that Xabi Alonso’s current contract runs until 2026 and that there is mutual respect between the coach and the club. While the club remains hopeful of an extension, they understand the interest Alonso is generating due to his impressive performance as head coach.
“By signing him until 2026, we had confidence he’d stay. But we also have to be ready. We can sleep peacefully, have a good breakfast, and be prepared for any eventuality.”
The clause isn’t legally binding but serves as a professional understanding based on mutual respect — a recognition of Alonso’s achievements and his deep ties with clubs like Liverpool and Real Madrid.
Alonso’s Journey with Bayer Leverkusen
Xabi Alonso took charge of Bayer Leverkusen in October 2022 when the club was languishing near the bottom of the Bundesliga table. In less than a season, he transformed the perennial underachievers into Bundesliga champions and a major force in German football.
Under Alonso, Leverkusen also secured the DFB-Pokal and the DFL-Supercup, and reached the final of the UEFA Europa League, where they finished as runners-up to Atalanta.
Now in his third season, Alonso’s side trails Bayern Munich by eight points with four matches remaining. Despite an early exit in the Champions League’s round of 16 to Bayern, his achievements have attracted interest from Europe’s elite clubs.
Real Madrid and Liverpool Monitoring Developments
Real Madrid and Liverpool are both reported to be long-time admirers of Xabi Alonso, who spent significant portions of his playing career at both clubs. With Carlo Ancelotti’s future in question and Jurgen Klopp stepping down earlier in the year, Alonso’s name has repeatedly surfaced in conversations surrounding managerial succession.
While Alonso opted to stay at Leverkusen during Liverpool’s recent managerial change — which saw Arne Slot appointed — speculation continues to mount around a potential return to the Bernabéu.
Carro acknowledged this growing narrative:
“I would like Real Madrid to win everything so there wouldn’t be these discussions.”
Timing Is Critical
Carro clarified that any decision about Xabi Alonso’s future must be made within the next few weeks. The club cannot afford to wait until the end of the season, especially as they are already preparing for the next campaign.
“The decision has to be made within three or four weeks; we can’t wait until the end of the season.”
He also stressed that Alonso is fully integrated into Leverkusen’s planning for next season and remains involved in building the squad.
“He’s fully involved and integrated into the preparations. If there’s interest from another club and he’s interested, we have a relationship that would have to be discussed.”
Mutual Respect and Open Dialogue
According to Carro, the key to any future development lies in Xabi Alonso’s willingness to stay or explore new opportunities. He stated that the coach’s loyalty and transparency have been consistent since his arrival.
“Last year, during the international break, he assured us that he would stay, despite having offers.”
“This year we’ve given ourselves some time to make a decision. We’re very calm, and there’s not much more to say.”
“Xabi’s willingness is important; he respects us, and we respect him.”
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Final Thoughts: Will Xabi Alonso Stay or Go?
With a “gentleman’s agreement” in place and interest from some of Europe’s most storied clubs, Xabi Alonso faces a defining decision in the coming weeks. Whether he remains at Leverkusen to build on his success or answers the call of a former club like Real Madrid or Liverpool, the next chapter of his coaching career promises to be just as exciting as his illustrious playing days.
For now, Bayer Leverkusen remain hopeful — but realistic — as they await Alonso’s decision before the summer transfer window opens.
