Xabi Alonso Confirms He’s Leaving Bayer Leverkusen Ahead of Expected Move to Real Madrid

Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso is leaving the German club after this season, ahead of an expected move to Real Madrid.

“This is the right moment to announce it,” the Spanish coach said Friday, ahead of what will be his final home game on Sunday. “Clarity is good for everyone.”

The 43-year-old Alonso ended weeks of speculation by informing his players before Friday’s training session that he was leaving, one year before his contract with the club expires in 2026.

Alonso, a former Madrid player, led Leverkusen to an unprecedented league and cup double last season after taking over the team when it was in the Bundesliga’s relegation zone in October 2022.

“I think that we can be happy, we can proud of what we have achieved during this time,” Alonso said.

His Leverkusen team remains the only one to complete a Bundesliga season unbeaten.