Bayer 04 Leverkusen confirms departure of head coach Xabi Alonso at the end of the season. After more than two and a half years together, the club announced that their paths will part. “The German champions, cup and super cup winners of 2024 have complied with the wishes of the Spaniard to terminate the originally until summer 2026 valid contract after the completion of this season” the club stated. “A successor as head coach will be announced by Bayer 04 at a later time.”
Werner Wenning, chairman of the Bayer 04 shareholder committee, expressed his gratitude for the achievements under Alonso’s leadership. “Together with Xabi Alonso, we have written a success story, like no other in German football, through the undefeated championship win” said Wenning. “He was always an outstanding ambassador for our club and the entire Bundesliga.”
Geschäftsführer Fernando Carro emphasized the sporting reputation that the club has gained in the past two and a half seasons both nationally and internationally. “The successes under Xabi Alonso’s responsibility have given Bayer 04 lasting recognition in the world of football. Winning the championship undefeated to Leverkusen, the DFB-Pokal victory, the Europa League final appearance and the Super Cup win – we are very proud of these achievements” said Carro.
Geschäftsführer Sport Simon Rolfes referred to the Alonso era as a “milestone in the development of Bayer 04 Leverkusen.” Together with Alonso, they have built a team that has impressed the entire football world with its quality and mentality. “We are proud of the great progress and current standing of the club and wish Xabi success in his future endeavors” said Rolfes.
Alonso himself expressed his immense gratitude. “I am extremely grateful to Bayer 04 Leverkusen, my players and staff, all the club employees and not least to the fantastic fans. Our success was the result of an outstanding team effort” said Alonso. “Winning the German championship for the first time was very much deserved by this club, which showed me exceptional trust. I am grateful to all who contributed to this triumph, including the cup victory in Berlin” said Alonso. “Bayer 04 is ready for the future. The positive path will continue and I will eagerly follow it.”
Reports suggest that the path of the former Bayern player will lead to the Spanish capital after the season to Real Madrid.