Xabi Alonso clause revealed as Real Madrid move speculation grows | OneFootball

The storm prior to the calm is always louder than it sounds. Whenever a European club director gets the urge to speak publicly, at the Laureus Awards, they will make a few hints at what is coming. And Fernando Carro, Bayer Leverkusen CEO, handed over the treasure map. By confirming that there is indeed a "gentleman's agreement" to depart amicably with Xabi Alonso if the former club comes calling, he did not just call the match, but put Real Madrid on the wanted list.

What we have here is the perfect tale that leads to the unavoidable. Xabi, the most sought-after name on the coaching board in Europe at present, stands to face a challenge most coaches dream of having: choosing between staying true to his own work or responding to the institution where he became a legend.

The allure of Real Madrid

Xabi's relationship with Real Madrid is more profound than the contract he signed before as a player. The Spanish capital club historically demands something more from its coaches. Good is not sufficient. You must learn the internal code. The weight of the badge, the size of the locker room, the conversation with everything it envelops. You must be able to speak the language of the Bernabéu without a translator. In that regard, Xabi is a native speaker.

It's no coincidence that his name is the strongest to come in as a replacement for Carlo Ancelotti. The issue isn't the profile, but the timing. When? Now or later? And if not now, what would be the cost in the meantime? The musical chairs of Europe's big guns doesn't offer them repeats invitations often. That's why the time now is one that feels like a move to be made. When Real whistles, silence is heavier than any answer.

Leverkusen has a plan, but can't hide a dream

Bayer's message is mature. There is no desperation, no illusory perception of eternal stability. That shines through in the words of the CEO. There is a plan with Alonso, but there is also planning for plan B. And that is not negativity, it's an honest read of the market. The German club recognizes they've kept the coach longer than reason suggests is feasible. And maybe now is the time to let him go.

At the end of it, it will be between staying where he is the boss or venturing to try something different on a larger scale. Xabi Alonso has a comfortable role at Bayer. But if Real Madrid makes an offer, it will also be one of the heart.