'The bond is very strong' - Xabi Alonso reveals 'affection' for Real Madrid as he discusses replacing Carlo Ancelotti as manager in summer

Ancelotti has decided to step down from his role as Madrid boss at the end of the season, according to reports in Spain, and Leverkusen boss Alonso has been highlighted as the favourite to take his place.

Alonso had been linked to the Madrid job throughout last season as his side marched towards the club's first ever Bundesliga title while they also won the DFB-Pokal and reached the Europa League final, where they suffered their only defeat of the campaign against Atalanta.

As a promising coach who spent five years at the club as a player, the ex-midfielder is seen by many as a natural replacement for Ancelotti, but the Spaniard says he will not discuss his future while the season is ongoing.

"I can’t say anything, we’re in the middle of a season and all the clubs have big goals," he told reporters when asked about reports linking him to Madrid. "Over the years, time passes, but the affection [for Madrid] endures. That relationship is unforgettable, and it is appreciated because the bond is very strong. It was a very nice stage as a player, they were very intense years. It was difficult for us to get what we wanted and it was very celebrated when we achieved it."

He added: "[The speculation] doesn't bother me, nor have I prepared it, nor does it surprise me. I'm worried about the game against Atleti, we have enough with that."

Alonso can further enhance his reputation with the Bernabeu club by guiding his team to a Champions League win against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday.