Uli Hoeness confirms Bayern’s interest in Xabi Alonso but says Liverpool and Real Madrid are also “working” to land Bayer Leverkusen’s coach.
Alonso’s tenure at Bayer Leverkusen has been a resounding success as he has catapulted the club to the top of the Bundesliga table with a commanding 10-point lead over record champions Bayern. His tactical acumen and leadership have not gone unnoticed, attracting interest from top clubs seeking managerial talent.
Bayern’s honorary president Uli Hoeness admitted their interest in Alonso but at the same time acknowledged the stiff competition they face from Liverpool and Real Madrid.
“Clubs like Liverpool, Real Madrid, Leverkusen and FC Bayern are working on it,” Hoeness told Ran Sport.
“He’s proven that he can be a coach for the big time. There are hardly any coaches who come into question who are currently free, who don’t have a job or who are on sabbatical. It’s not so easy to tell them that FC Bayern is the measure of all things.”
With Thomas Tuchel set to depart Bayern Munich and Jurgen Klopp announcing his exit from Liverpool, both clubs are actively seeking replacements. Liverpool’s sporting director, Michael Edwards, is reportedly engaged in negotiations to secure Alonso’s services but is also keeping tabs on other managerial candidates, including Roberto De Zerbi and Franck Haise.
Although Carlo Ancelotti recently extended his contract with Real Madrid, the club sees Alonso as a potential long-term managerial prospect. Moreover, the 42-year-old’s deep ties to the club, where he spent five years as a player and helped Los Blancos win their 10th Champions League title, make him an attractive candidate for the Spanish giants.
Alonso’s current contract with Bayer Leverkusen runs until 2026 and is thought to have a release clause in his deal. This means any potential suitor would have to shell out a hefty chunk to lure the boss away from the Bundesliga side.
