Bundesliga: Leverkusen's Sporting Director Affirms Alonso Will Continue as Coach Next Season
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Synopsis
Bayer Leverkusen, revitalized under Xabi Alonso, has reignited their Bundesliga title ambitions following a 3-1 win over Bochum. CEO Simon Rolfes confirmed Alonso will stay until 2026, dismissing rumors linking him to Real Madrid. Leverkusen is also focused on retaining star Florian Wirtz amid European interest.
Key Takeaways
- Bayer Leverkusen is revitalized under Xabi Alonso.
- Confirmed that Alonso will remain coach until 2026.
- Leverkusen is pursuing the Bundesliga title with seven matches left.
- Alonso's focus is solely on the current campaign.
- Florian Wirtz is being pursued by top European clubs.
Berlin (Germany), March 29 (NationPress) Revitalized under Xabi Alonso, Bayer Leverkusen has made a notable comeback in the Bundesliga title race—a contest many had deemed lost just weeks ago. A decisive 3-1 home victory against Bochum has narrowed the gap with leaders Bayern Munich, rekindling confidence in the defending champions.
As they pursue the title with seven matches left, CEO Simon Rolfes addressed the speculation surrounding Alonso's future, affirming that the Spaniard will fulfill his contract through 2026. "He is remaining. There is nothing else to discuss; he has a contract," Rolfes stated, adding, "We are in detailed discussions about this season and the next regarding our squad.".
Rumors linking Alonso to Real Madrid continue as current Real coach Carlo Ancelotti faces a tax-evasion trial in Spain. Reports indicate that a conviction might lead to another appeal from the Spanish club.
Rolfes downplayed worries, asserting that Alonso is "content here" and highlighting that their mission is far from complete. Prior to the match against Bochum, Alonso avoided commitments, stating, "We are fully concentrating on the present campaign.".
Leverkusen has heightened pressure on Bayern by declaring they will strive "with all our might as we believe the doors are not yet closed.".
The club is also looking forward to updates regarding German star Florian Wirtz, 21, who is being pursued by elite European clubs. Leverkusen has crafted a contract after discussions with his father-manager, Hans-Joachim. Rolfes expressed hope about retaining Wirtz until at least the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Since Alonso's arrival in October 2022, Leverkusen has set its sights on a German Cup victory and a Bundesliga challenge. Their upcoming DFB-Pokal semifinal against third-tier Bielefeld is on the horizon.
"Why should we focus on anything other than our seasonal objectives?" Rolfes remarked. "There is just one spot remaining above us.".
Alonso reiterated the emphasis: "It’s solely time to discuss football as my team is ignited once more."
