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Real Madrid are preparing to turn the page on a golden era. Carlo Ancelotti’s time in charge is coming to a close, and as per reports, a familiar face is ready to take his place — Xabi Alonso.
The club legend, who once patrolled the midfield at the Bernabeu, is reportedly set to step into the manager’s chair at Madrid after the La Liga season ends.
Alonso, currently with Bayer Leverkusen, has agreed to take the job once Ancelotti’s exit is confirmed, as per Marca.
Talks between Real Madrid and Alonso have been positive for months, but now, with the season nearing its end, all signs point to a summer switch.
The former midfield maestro led Leverkusen to their first-ever Bundesliga title and an unbeaten league run — a feat not even Bayern could brag about in their dominant years.
But with his job in Germany nearly done, Alonso sees this as the right moment to return home.
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When can Carlo Ancelotti have his farewell match for Real Madrid?
Circle the date — May 25. That’s when Ancelotti is expected to wave goodbye to the Santiago Bernabeu. It could be a farewell soaked in silverware, depending on how the La Liga title race ends.
Real Madrid and Ancelotti have already agreed on a respectful send-off, win or lose. After the Champions League clash with Arsenal, the decision to part ways became clear.
The Italian coach could then finalize his move to manage Brazil at the 2026 World Cup.
“Ancelotti will have a great farewell,” a club source said. And with 15 trophies during his two spells in charge, it’s safe to say he’s earned it.
Expected contract length for Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid?
Alonso could reportedly sign a three-year deal with Madrid and bring along his trusted coaching team. That includes fitness coach Alberto Encinas and long-time assistant Sebas Parrilla.
With Alonso in charge, Madrid are planning ahead — eyeing transfers like Trent Alexander-Arnold and a few new names could also be welcomed. It would be a fresh start, but with deep roots for Alonso.
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Vishal Bhawani is a sub-editor for the Affiliate Content team and a writer and sub-editor for the Football Wires team at The Sporting News. Based in Indore, India, he holds a Diploma in Operations and Management from Maharashtra University.
Before joining TSN in May 2024, Vishal contributed to Football Express and Six Sports and ran his own blog, Anfield Home, as a passionate Liverpool fan. An avid traveler, he follows multiple sports, including cricket, soccer, and tennis.
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