Bayer Leverkusen have begun planning for a future without their highly successful manager Xabi Alonso, who is widely expected to join Real Madrid next season. In a surprising twist, former Barcelona boss Xavi Hernández has emerged as a leading candidate to take the reins at the Bundesliga champions, according to multiple reports.
Alonso, who transformed Leverkusen into a formidable force, leading them to an unprecedented unbeaten Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal double in 2024, is reportedly the top choice to succeed Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid. With speculation mounting over Alonso’s departure, Leverkusen’s management, led by CEO Fernando Carro, has been proactive in identifying potential replacements to maintain the club’s upward trajectory.
Xavi, a legendary figure at Barcelona both as a player and manager, has been out of work since leaving the Catalan giants in 2024 after a mixed spell in charge. Despite guiding Barcelona to the La Liga title in 2022-23, his final season was marred by inconsistency and criticism, leading to his departure. However, Xavi’s possession-based philosophy, rooted in the tiki-taka style he mastered under Pep Guardiola, aligns closely with the dynamic, attacking football Alonso has instilled at Leverkusen.
German outlet Kicker reports that Leverkusen have already approached Xavi, who has not ruled out the possibility of taking over at the BayArena. The 44-year-old Spaniard’s experience in developing young talent and his tactical acumen make him an attractive option for a club looking to build on Alonso’s legacy. Xavi’s interest in the role has also been noted by Spanish media, with AS suggesting he is keen to return to management in a competitive European league.
“Xavi Hernández is a name that excites us,” a source close to Leverkusen’s board reportedly told Nogomania. “His style of play and ability to work with a young squad fit perfectly with our vision for the future.”
However, Xavi is not the only candidate on Leverkusen’s shortlist. Former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag, recently sacked by the Premier League side, is also under consideration, with Sky Germany reporting that he is a “serious candidate.” Other names linked include Real Sociedad’s outgoing boss Imanol Alguacil, Brighton’s Fabian Hürzeler, and former Bayern Munich assistant Sandro Wagner.
Leverkusen’s proactive approach stems from their desire to avoid being caught off guard by Alonso’s potential exit. Carro recently confirmed the existence of a “gentleman’s agreement” that could allow Alonso to leave for one of his former clubs, such as Real Madrid or Liverpool, should he choose to do so. While Carro expressed hope that Alonso would stay, he emphasized the club’s readiness to adapt. “We’re a professional club, and we have to be prepared for anything,” Carro told reporters.
The prospect of Xavi taking charge has sparked excitement among Leverkusen fans, with posts on X reflecting optimism about his potential to maintain the club’s attacking identity. One user wrote, “Xavi’s possession-based philosophy and experience with youth development could be perfect for Leverkusen’s project.” However, some fans remain skeptical, citing his struggles in his final months at Barcelona.