Former Barcelona boss Xavi has emerged as a surprise target for Bayer Leverkusen, who have begun preparing for life after the departing Xabi Alonso.
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Article continues below
Article continues below
- Xavi on Leverkusen's radar
- Want him to replace Madrid-bound Alonso
- Ex-Barca boss on sabbatical since last year
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WHAT HAPPENED?
According to a report from German outlet , Xavi has emerged as a shock candidate for the Leverkusen head coach role, which is expected to be left vacant following the potential departure of Alonso, who in turn is heavily tipped to join Real Madrid ahead of next season.
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
Carlo Ancelotti is reportedly on the verge of reaching an agreement with the Brazilian national team, with media reports stating that the Italian will leave the Madrid dugout after this season ends in late May. Alonso has been the priority for Los Blancos as Ancelotti's successor, and it seems that the Spaniard is set to reunite with his former club, this time as a manager.
Xavi has now emerged as a strong candidate for Die Werkself, with his tactical approach, international pedigree and fluent English seen as key assets. Sources close to the situation confirm that initial contact has been made with the Catalan coach and, significantly, no negative response has been received from his camp, indicating a potential openness to discussions.
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DID YOU KNOW?
Xavi is not the only candidate on Leverkusen's radar. According to journalist Florian Plettenberg, the reigning Bundesliga champions consider former Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag to be a 'serious candidate' for the job, although concrete talks have not yet taken place between the two parties.
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WHAT NEXT FOR LEVERKUSEN?
Leverkusen fans will be hoping that Alonso can guide his side to a strong finish this season. Leverkusen are currently eight points behind league leaders Bayern Munich with just three games to go, which means that they are all but confirmed to return the domestic throne to their rivals from Bavaria. In their next game, which will be played on Sunday, May 4, Leverkusen will take on Freiburg.
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