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Article continues belowArticle continues belowArticle continues below<script type="application/json" data-placement="fcplayer-semantic">{"type":"fcplayer-semantic","data":{"embedCode":"//cdn.fcp.codes/embed-code-template/embed-code-template.js#SEMANTIC_d6e1e5da-7d9a-43d5-97e1-f4350a3cd7e3"}}</script><ul><li>Alonso rejects Liverpool and Bayern</li><li>Set to remain at Leverkusen for next season</li><li>Madrid view Alonso as 'perfect' for 2026 move</li></ul>

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, <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-cm/lists/xabi-alonso-decision-rejects-bayern-munich-liverpool-bayer-leverkusen-stay/blt3f58b772b9b209a9" target="_blank">the Spaniard announced his decision to stay put with Die Werkself</a>, thus snubbing interest from Liverpool and Bayern, who had been the most likely destinations for the 42-year-old.

WHAT HAPPENED?

However, as per Matteo Moretto (via <a href="https://www.football-espana.net/2024/03/31/members-of-real-madrid-board-lining-up-xabi-alonso-to-replace-carlo-ancelotti" target="_blank">Football Espana</a>), 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.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

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.

DID YOU KNOW?

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.

WHAT NEXT FOR ALONSO?

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 | Goal.com US

Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso reportedly has the backing of Real Madrid president Florentino Perez after snubbing Liverpool and Bayern Munich.

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