Bayer Leverkusen is reportedly bracing for the departure of Xabi Alonso by 2025, following rumors that he could succeed Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. As Guardiola enters the final year of his contract, speculation about his future has intensified, with Manchester City exploring potential candidates. Xabi Alonso has emerged as a strong contender to replace Guardiola, given his managerial success with Leverkusen in the Bundesliga.
Guardiola has yet to confirm if he will extend his contract with the Premier League champions or seek new opportunities. This uncertainty has opened the door for Manchester City to evaluate potential replacements, including Sporting Lisbon’s Ruben Amorim, who has strong ties with the club’s incoming director of football, Hugo Viana.
Xabi Alonso, however, is also on the radar of Real Madrid, who are eyeing their former player as a potential successor to Carlo Ancelotti. Alonso’s growing reputation as one of Europe’s top managers is a key reason for the attention he’s receiving. Since taking over Bayer Leverkusen, Alonso has transformed the club, pulling them out of a relegation battle and guiding them to remarkable success.
Under Alonso’s management, Leverkusen finished sixth in the Bundesliga during the 2022-23 season, and they made history in the 2023-24 campaign by securing their first Bundesliga title and DFB-Pokal in over three decades. His leadership also propelled them to the Europa League final, although they were defeated by Atalanta.
Leverkusen’s strong start to the 2024-25 season, including winning the German Super Cup and their impressive Champions League performances, only reinforces Alonso’s status as one of the most promising coaches in Europe. Despite having a contract until 2026, Bayer Leverkusen is already considering potential replacements, including Stuttgart’s Sebastian Hoeness and Germany assistant coach Sandro Wagner, should Alonso leave for Manchester City or Real Madrid.
This potential managerial shift could have a significant impact on both Leverkusen and the future of European football, as clubs look to secure top talent for their coaching positions. With Xabi Alonso’s continued rise in the football world, his next move will undoubtedly be one to watch.
