Real Madrid set to appoint Xabi Alonso as new manager

Real Madrid officials are preparing to announce the appointment of Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso as their next manager.

The 43-year-old, who previously played for the Spanish giants, will return to the Bernabéu on a three-year deal, replacing Carlo Ancelotti, whose departure follows a recent meeting with club officials.

Ancelotti, 65, has enjoyed a highly successful second stint in Madrid, securing two La Liga titles and two UEFA Champions League trophies.

During his first tenure, he also guided the club to a European title.

However, despite these achievements, his tenure will come to an end after Real Madrid’s quarter-final exit in this year’s Champions League and their failure to defend the La Liga title.

According to Marca, Ancelotti will bid farewell to Madrid after the final match of the season against Real Sociedad.

Alonso will take over and bring his trusted assistants, Sebas Parrilla and Alberto Encinas, with him.

Alonso’s stock has risen dramatically since taking charge of Bayer Leverkusen, where he led the team to an unbeaten Bundesliga season, winning both the league title and the German Cup.

Alonso is expected to be officially announced as Real Madrid’s new manager in the coming weeks

However, a 2-2 draw with Freiburg on Sunday saw Leverkusen surrender the title to Bayern Munich, despite losing only two league games.

This will be Alonso’s third managerial role, having previously managed Real Sociedad’s B team until 2022.

His success at Leverkusen has made him a top target for Madrid, and he is expected to be officially announced as their new manager in the coming weeks.

Alonso’s first task at Madrid will be to lead the team in the upcoming Club World Cup this summer.

Los Blancos will face Al-Hilal from Saudi Arabia, Mexican club Pachuca, and Austria’s Red Bull Salzburg in the group stage.