Xabi Alonso, the acclaimed former midfielder for Liverpool and the Spanish national team, has made headlines recently with his decision to leave Bayer Leverkusen at the conclusion of the current football season. After an exceptional campaign during the 2023/24 season, where he led the team to clinch both the Bundesliga title and the German Cup, Alonso’s departure marks the end of a successful chapter at the club.
In this remarkable season, Bayer Leverkusen achieved unparalleled success, finishing the league and cup competitions without a single loss, a testament to Alonso’s astute management and the team’s performance. Their formidable run came to an unfortunate end in the UEFA Europa League final, where they faced the Italian Serie A club Atalanta. Despite their outstanding domestic performance, they were unable to secure a coveted treble, leaving them just shy of what would have been a historic achievement.
Alonso announced that he will continue as the manager for Bayer Leverkusen’s last two fixtures, where they will face off against Borussia Dortmund and Mainz. His communication on this matter was clear and forthcoming. “This week the club and I have agreed that these two games will be my last two games as Bayer Leverkusen coach,” he stated during a press conference on Friday. His sentiments echoed the mutual respect and open dialogue he has maintained with the club since his arrival.
Reflecting on his decision within an emotional context, Alonso remarked, “It is a moment with mixed emotions, but it is the time to announce it.” His ability to connect with the players and staff, as well as to foster a positive atmosphere, has been pivotal in his role as a manager. Through direct and candid dialogue, both he and Bayer Leverkusen have found a suitable moment to make the announcement public.
Furthermore, speculation regarding Alonso’s future has been rampant, especially with recurring rumors linking him to a return to Real Madrid. Having spent five successful years playing for the Spanish giants, many believe he could fill significant managerial roles there. Nonetheless, the 43-year-old was non-committal about any potential future moves, stating, “It’s not the moment to talk about the future.” His focus remains steadfast on leaving Bayer Leverkusen on a high note and honoring the team’s efforts in the upcoming matches.
The club’s trajectory under Alonso has been impressive, with his first season ending at a respectable sixth place in the Bundesliga. A transformation under his leadership brought them to new heights this season, culminating in a memorable double yet falling just short of a treble. The only blemish in an otherwise flawless campaign was the title secured by rivals Bayern Munich, who claimed their customary position as champions of the league.
As his tenure comes to a close, Alonso aims to ensure that Bayer Leverkusen can celebrate the achievements of the season properly, including a farewell that acknowledges the contributions of departing players alongside his own. In his words, “We have to enjoy this moment with mixed emotions,” encapsulating both the pride in their accomplishments and the bittersweet nature of goodbyes.
For fans and followers of football, this transition marks the end of an era, not just for Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen but also sets the stage for what lies ahead in both his career and the future of Bayer Leverkusen. As viewers look forward to witnessing the Premier League and upcoming UEFA Champions League fixtures, the anticipation surrounding Alonso’s next move is palpable, underscoring the ever-evolving landscape of football.
