Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso is reportedly at the top of Manchester City’s list to replace Pep Guardiola in the summer if the latter decides against signing a new deal at the Etihad.
The former Liverpool midfielder led Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga title last season, completing a league and cup double by winning the DFB-Pokal.
Alonso’s side also reached the Europa League final, though they were defeated by Serie A side Atalanta.
Alonso has been linked with a return to Anfield following Jurgen Klopp’s departure, with reports suggesting he turned down the job to spend another season in Germany.
However, Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg reports that the upcoming 2024-25 campaign will be his last at the BayArena, as Leverkusen chiefs are preparing for his exit next summer.
The report states that the reigning Premier League champions are poised to firm up their interest if Guardiola leaves City.
Real Madrid are also said to be keen on securing Alonso’s services.
Guardiola’s contract expires at the end of the current campaign, and Liverpool’s decision to appoint Arne Slot means they are no longer in the running for the position following a promising start to the season.
Additionally, it has been suggested that Madrid may part ways with Carlo Ancelotti, despite his current contract running until the summer of 2026, should an opportunity arise to bring Alonso on board.
Leverkusen are reportedly compiling a list of potential candidates to succeed the 42-year-old, with Stuttgart boss Sebastian Hoeness and current Germany assistant manager Sandro Wagner among those in contention.
Alonso’s side has won five of their last seven matches since suffering a defeat to RB Leipzig in August, a loss that ended their remarkable 35-game unbeaten streak.
This impressive form has drawn global attention, with Manchester City showing particular admiration for the Leverkusen boss.
Speaking back in July, Guardiola said: “Nine years in the same club today is an eternity.
“So I want to be sure that it’s the right decision, not just for me but the club and the players – they run like they did for eight years.
“It doesn’t matter the competition, the tournament, this is what I have to see.
“I am sure eight more years I won’t stay! It’s good to refresh, for players and managers.
“At the same time we have had success and are still winning Premier Leagues, arriving in the last stages and we are playing competitions like the Champions League.
“This is my feeling right now.”
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