The future of the Italian has been regularly mentioned in recent years, and even if he is not expected before the expiration of his contract in the summer of 2026, he could leave earlier.
This could happen at the end of this season, and if this is the case, we expect Real Madrid to take steps for Alonso-even if he may not be the only one to do so. The 43-year-old has many pretenders given his exploits with Bayer Leverkusen, and one of them is Manchester City, who could himself be looking for a new coach.
Earlier in the season, Pep Guardiola signed an extension of contract until 2026, which means that it could also be transferred at the same time as Encelotti and Alonso will leave their current positions. At this point, Manchester City should consider Alonso as a candidate to be their next main coach, as Bild (via ED) reports.
Xabi Alonso could replace Pep Guardiola in Manchester City
It is likely that the summer of 2026 is also the moment when Real Madrid will turn to Alonso, because it would be a surprise to see Ancelotti dismissed before the end of his contract. As such, it could be a direct shooting between them and Manchester City to see who can bring the Basque as the next main coach.
The race for Alonso will be very interesting. Leverkusen would not oppose him if he sought to leave before the end of his contract, even if it is likely that he remains among the defending champions of the Bundesliga for an additional season. In the meantime, Real Madrid will remain on alert, just like Manchester City.
