Xabi Alonso’s next club lined up? Bayer Leverkusen coach gets backing from Real Madrid president Florentino Perez after decision to snub Liverpool & Bayern Munich

Alonso's sudden rise to fame amid his superb season at Leverkusen has seen linked with multiple clubs to take over in the summer. However, the Spaniard announced his decision to stay put with Die Werkself, thus snubbing interest from Liverpool and Bayern, who had been the most likely destinations for the 42-year-old.

However, as per Matteo Moretto (via Football Espana), Alonso has the backing of Real Madrid's board to take over in 2026 after the end of Carlo Ancelotti's tenure with Los Blancos. As per the report, the hierarchy at the club, including club president Perez, view him as the "perfect replacement" at the top. It is also reported that Alonso is aware of that appreciation, which informed his decision to stay at Leverkusen and hold out for the Real switch.

After taking over at Leverkusen in 2022, Alonso has transformed the club's fortunes by leading them to the Europa League in his first season and now, all but confirming their first-ever league title. They currently sit atop the Bundesliga standings with a 13-point lead over Bayern Munich in second place.

With his immediate future at the club secure, Alonso will now completely focus his attention on the end of the season and the possibility of ending the campaign without a single loss. He will also start planning for next season with the club guaranteed to be playing in the Champions League.