Xabi Alonso responds to intensifying Real Madrid links as pressure cranks up on Carlo Ancelotti after disastrous Champions League exit

Alonso has repeatedly been linked with a move to Madrid when Ancelotti eventually moves on, and that speculation has ramped up after their Champions League quarter-final exit at the hands of Arsenal. But the Leverkusen manager insisted he is focused on doing the best he can for the German side this season.

He told reporters: “It's not a good time to discuss the future. We're at a very important moment in the season. I don't want to talk about speculation and rumours. [I understand] that this is happening, but what's more important to me is what's happening right now."

Rumours are mounting that Ancelotti will leave Madrid at the end of this season, particularly if they fail to win the Copa del Rey and La Liga. Both he and Alonso are out of contract in 2026 but it remains to be seen who will be leading Los Blancos next term.

Before managerial changes happen or not, Alonso's Leverkusen face St. Pauli in the Bundesliga on Sunday.