Rolfes convinced Xabi Alonso will stay despite Real Madrid links
Despite suggestions that it's already a foregone conclusion that Xabi Alonso will join Real Madrid this summer, Bayer Leverkusen boss Simon Rolfes is still optimistic about keeping his coach for longer.
After a highly successful start to the season, Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso is being heavily linked with Real Madrid, with reports suggesting he's likely to take over as head coach of the Spanish giants next summer.
Bayer Leverkusen managing director for sport Simon Rolfes, however, still expects the former Spain international to stay with the club beyond the current season.
"He is here one hundred percent and is also involved in all issues that affect the further development of the club and are perhaps a little more long-term," Rolfes told Bild TV:
"That's why I am convinced that he will be with us for a longer period of time."
He added that Xabi "has developed a great bond with the club".
"Everybody feels it, I feel it, but also the fans and the players. I think he is very happy with us. That is always the foundation of a coach's decision."
Xabi Alonso was appointed Leverkusen coach in October 2022. After 12 games of the season, his Leverkusen team sit at the top of the Bundesliga table, two points clear of Bayern Munich.