Xabi Alonso, the head coach of Bayer Leverkusen, has formally declared his intention to remain with the Bundesliga powerhouses for the 2024–25 season. This puts an end to the pursuit of his services by Liverpool and Bayern Munich this summer.
Liverpool will be required to appoint a manager to succeed Jurgen Klopp at the conclusion of the current campaign, as the club’s inspirational leader is preparing to resign. Similarly, Bayern is also interested in Thomas Tuchel.
Despite the fact that Carlo Ancelotti recently signed a new contract at Bernabeu, it had been indicated that both European powerhouses were keeping a close watch on the situation and had identified Alonso as their primary target.
Multiple sources reported on Thursday that Alonso would remain at Leverkusen through the summer, as the Spaniard wished to advance his managerial career at the German club.
At a press conference, the 42-year-old, who is under contract with his current club until 2026, affirmed that he will not be leaving at the conclusion of the current season.
“Last week I had a meeting [with club officials] and informed them of the decision to continue being the coach of Bayer Leverkusen,” Alonso disclosed to reporters.
“After much deliberation regarding my future, I utilized the break to reflect and reach a conclusion.” I am convinced that this is the ideal environment for me to develop as a novice coach. My employment at Bayer continues. I want to assist the club and the athletes in their development; the board is excellent; everything is splendid here.
“Every single one of my cards is on the table.” I have carefully considered the decision at hand, as it is imperative to engage in thoughtful reflection. As soon as I obtained it, I felt compelled to share it with everyone. It represents reverence. This morning, I informed the athletes during a team meeting. We have made standard preparations.
“You have engaged in considerable speculation since May of last year!” It is an inherent aspect of conducting business, and it has not caused me any concern. It was vital that the team’s mentality remained positive and that it did not negatively impact the group. “Everything is in the clear.”
Xabi Alonso stays our head coach for next season! 🖤❤️#Bayer04 #Werkself pic.twitter.com/ih3UjOpt6F
— Bayer 04 Leverkusen (@bayer04_en) March 29, 2024
What might Leverkusen accomplish this season?
Since returning to Leverkusen as head coach in October 2022, following a three-year tenure at Real Sociedad B, Alonso has compiled an astounding record of 50 victories, 15 draws, and 10 losses in 75 matches.
The former Spain international is attempting to guide the Black and Reds to three trophies this season, and the squad has an astoundingly unblemished record across all competitions in 2023–24.
Ten points clear of second-place Bayern in the Bundesliga standings, Leverkusen will face Fortuna Dusseldorf on April 3 in the German Cup semi-finals.
Alonso is also seeking to guide the club to a European triumph as they face West Ham United in the Europa League quarterfinals.
Five times they finished in second place in the Bundesliga, Leverkusen have yet to win a championship. Furthermore, they have only triumphed in one European trophy, the UEFA Cup in 1987–88.
