Xabi Alonso appears to be edging closer to his dream of managing Real Madrid, according to German newspaper Bild. Although he has decided to remain with Bayer Leverkusen for another year, Alonso reportedly rejected offers from major European clubs like Liverpool and Bayern Munich this summer, with his eyes set on a future role at the Bernabéu.

The situation at Real Madrid largely hinges on Carlo Ancelotti's future. If the Italian coach opts not to continue beyond 2025, the club would likely pursue Alonso, who is contracted with Leverkusen until 2026. However, Bild suggests that it wouldn’t be far-fetched for Alonso to leave the German side early if the opportunity to coach Real Madrid arises.

Bayer Leverkusen's sporting director, Simon Rolfes, is already looking for potential replacements for Alonso, aware that the coach's future is uncertain. A final decision from Alonso regarding his future is expected in spring 2025, coinciding with developments surrounding Ancelotti at Madrid.

Given these circumstances, it’s clear that Alonso's main goal is to return to Spain and take the helm of the team where he shone as a player, fulfilling one of his greatest dreams as a coach.