Xabi Alonso: Bayer Leverkusen Chief Dismisses Reports Linking Club’s Coach to Real Madrid

• Xabi Alonso was recently linked with the coaching role at Real Madrid
• Bayer Leverkusen's chief has shut down those reports, saying their manager is focused on their club
• Current Real Madrid boss, Carlo Ancelotti, is expected to leave the club next year to coach the Brazil national team

Bayer Leverkusen director, Simon Rolfes has rubbished reports linking their manager Xabi Alonso to the Real Madrid role when current boss Carlo Ancelotti leaves.

Alonso spent five years at the Bernabeu, winning La Liga and the Champions League, and he retired as one of the best midfielders of his generation.

After stints managing junior sides in Spain, he took over at Leverkusen on October 22, leading them to the Europa League semi-finals.

This season, they are unbeaten in the Bundesliga after six games. They have won 16 points from a possible 18. The only game they dropped points in was the 2-2 draw against reigning champions Bayern Munich.

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That incredible run has seen Alonso get linked with a move to Real Madrid.

Could Alonso replace Ancelotti?

Last week, reports emerged that Alonso could be in line to replace Ancelotti, who will reportedly take over as Brazil boss next year. In July, Brazilian Football Confederation president Ednaldo Rodrigues claimed that the Italian would take over next year ahead of the Copa America, per Eurosport.

This means that the Real Madrid role will be open, and Alonso has been tipped to replace the veteran Italian coach.

However, Rolfes has shut down those reports, saying Alonso is committed to their project in the long term.

“We got his commitment a few weeks ago, when he extended his contract. Xabi doesn’t have to say anything. He has extended his contract. He’s fully focused here,” he said, via Mundo Deportivo.

Ancelotti addresses Alonos rumours

Sports Brief earlier reported on Ancelotti giving his thoughts about Alonso possibly replacing him as manager.

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The former AC Milan boss mentioned other club legends, in addition to Alonso, as his preferred candidates for the role.

“I have coached Xabi. He’s doing a great job at Bayer. He understands the game well. That’s why he’s a very good coach.

"I wish Xabi Alonso, Raul, and Alvaro Arbeloa to become Real Madrid's manager one day. I love all of them.”