Xabi Alonso's decision on Bayer Leverkusen future revealed as in-demand boss prepares to announce plans for next season - despite Real Madrid eyeing him as Carlo Ancelotti's replacement

According to a report from Diario AS, Alonso is set to reveal his plans for next season in a press conference scheduled for Thursday afternoon. During the session, he will field questions from the media ahead of Bayer Leverkusen's upcoming clash with VfL Bochum. It is suggested that Alonso will confirm he is staying with the German club for the 2025-26 season amid interest from Real Madrid.

Carlo Ancelotti is under contract with Real Madrid until 2026, but his future with the club could be in jeopardy if he fails to secure either La Liga title or the Champions League this season. However, the Los Blancos will hold off on any decisions regarding the final year of his deal until those outcomes are determined. While Alonso is widely considered a potential successor and discussions have reportedly taken place with his representatives, Leverkusen are eager for clarity on Alonso's future to continue their preparations for next season.

If Alonso decides to leave Bayer Leverkusen, he risks having to wait for Ancelotti's departure. Meanwhile, if Alonso stays at Leverkusen and Ancelotti is sacked this summer, Real Madrid might be forced explore other options, putting Alonso’s future in the hands of the potential new coach’s performance. It’s also not an ideal time for Alonso to take over, as the Club World Cup would likely delay his start until mid-July.

After being knocked out of the Champions League by domestic rivals Bayern Munich, Alonso's men remain in the hunt for both the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal titles, which they claimed last season. Die Werkself's next fixture is a Bundesliga clash against Bochum on Friday, followed by a cup semi-final clash against Arminia Bielefeld next Tuesday, April 1. Leverkusen are currently in second position in the league table, six points behind Bayern with just eight games to go.