Carlo Ancelotti, manager of Real Madrid, has lauded Xabi Alonso as “one of the best in the world,” as speculation intensifies that the Spanish midfielder-turned-coach will succeed him at the helm of the Spanish giants.
Alonso, currently head coach of Bayer Leverkusen, confirmed on Friday that he would be leaving the Bundesliga club at the end of the current season. His imminent departure has fueled widespread reports that he is set to take over at Real Madrid once Ancelotti’s exit is confirmed.
Before Madrid’s crucial El Clasico match against Barcelona on Sunday, Ancelotti spoke warmly about Alonso’s credentials, calling his work with Leverkusen “incredible.” “He has done an incredible job and he has the doors open to him because he has shown he is one of the best in the world,” Ancelotti said.
Despite these comments, the 65-year-old, whose managerial future has been the subject of much speculation, avoided directly addressing his own position. “With this club, the honeymoon doesn’t end,” he added. “The honeymoon with Madrid will last until the last day of my life.”
Ancelotti, one of the most successful and respected managers in world football, has been at Real Madrid twice, with 15 trophies to his name across both spells, including the Champions League-La Liga double last season. However, this season has been less successful for Madrid, as they trail Barcelona by four points with only four matches remaining. If they finish without silverware this campaign, it would mark the first time in four years without a trophy.
Meanwhile, Alonso, who was a key figure in Real Madrid’s 2014 Champions League victory, has made a strong impact at Leverkusen. In his first full season as a senior club manager, the 43-year-old led the German side to an undefeated Bundesliga title and secured the German Cup, showcasing his managerial prowess. His time at Leverkusen has made him a frontrunner to take over at Madrid.
With Alonso’s impressive managerial credentials and Ancelotti’s uncertain future, it seems likely that the Spaniard will be named as Real Madrid’s next manager in the near future.
