Overview

• Xabi Alonso announced he will step down as Bayer Leverkusen's head coach after their final two Bundesliga games this season.
• Real Madrid is reportedly set to appoint Alonso as their next manager on a three-year deal, replacing Carlo Ancelotti, who will depart after May 25.
• Real Madrid is expected to pay Bayer Leverkusen €12 million in compensation for Alonso's early contract termination.
• Alonso's tenure at Leverkusen included leading the club to its first-ever Bundesliga title in 2024 with an unbeaten domestic season and a league-cup double.
• Carlo Ancelotti, who has won 15 trophies across two stints at Real Madrid, is linked with a potential move to manage Brazil's national team.