Alonso to leave Bayer Leverkusen at end of season

Xabi Alonso will leave Bayer Leverkusen at the end of the season. Reports suggest he will replace Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid.

Last year, Alonso, 43, led Leverkusen to a Bundesliga title. They won without losing a game and also claimed the German Cup. This was his first full season as a senior club manager.

Alonso played for Real Madrid from 2009 to 2014. Before that, he spent five years at Liverpool. He ended his playing career after three years at Bayern Munich in 2017.

"This week, the club and I agreed these two games are my last," Alonso said on Friday.

"It’s not time to discuss the future yet. We want a proper farewell on Sunday for players and myself."

He added, "We should enjoy this moment with mixed emotions." He spoke with players and staff who supported him during his fantastic three years.

"Now is the time to share it with fans in this stadium," he said. "I have experienced great emotions here."

Leverkusen will host Borussia Dortmund on Sunday. They will conclude their season at Mainz on May 17.