Real Madrid manager target refuses to comment on links – ‘Not a good moment’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s recent elimination from the UEFA Champions League at the hands of Arsenal has reignited speculation surrounding the future of Carlo Ancelotti, and, inevitably, has thrust Xabi Alonso’s name back into the spotlight as a potential successor.

Alonso, for long now, has been touted as the man handpicked by the Real Madrid hierarchy to take over from Ancelotti, whose job is now hanging by a thread.

The Bayer Leverkusen manager, for his part, has refused to get dragged in on the speculations and insists now is not the time to discuss what comes next.

When asked about the implications of Real Madrid’s exit from the UEFA Champions League and what it could mean for his future, Alonso was quick to downplay its relevance.

“We are focused on our season,” said the 43-year-old coach during Friday’s press conference ahead of Leverkusen’s Bundesliga clash against St. Pauli, as quoted by Kicker.

Alonso remains Real Madrid’s preferred target to replace Ancelotti. (Photo by Christian Kaspar-Bartke/Getty Images)

Alonso was subsequently pressed repeatedly for clarity about his future plans amidst growing links to Real Madrid. But he stuck to his stance, offering neither a firm denial of interest nor a commitment to stay at Leverkusen.

“It is not a good moment to talk about the future,” he said. “We are in a very important stage of the season.”

He added that there was “nothing to decide right now, only who plays and what we train.”

The former midfielder turned managed urged the team and the fans to stay focused, even as speculation mounts.

“We have an important game in two days. I understand how football works, and the rumours that come with it, but I do not want to talk too much about that. For me, what matters is the present,” he said.

Alonso has a contract with Leverkusen until 2026 but it is believed that there is a clause in the deal which would allow Real Madrid to lure him away albeit for a fee.