Barcelona 'enter race for Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso'

By Ben Sully | 13 February 2024

Barcelona 'enter race for Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso'

Barcelona are reportedly set to enter the race to secure the services of Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso, who continues to be linked with the Liverpool job

Barcelona have reportedly entered the race to secure the services of Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso.

The Catalan giants are currently searching for a new head coach, with Xavi set to leave his position at the end of the season.

Xavi announced his decision following last month's 5-3 defeat to Villarreal – a result that highlighted the inconsistency that has plagued Barcelona's season.

Barcelona are currently sitting in third place and ten points adrift of leaders Real Madrid, while they have also experienced disappointment in the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup.

Although they are still competing in the Champions League, Barcelona's hierarchy are already turning their attention to who can lead them to success next season.

Barcelona head coach Xavi on January 21, 2024 © Reuters

Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel has been linked with the position after he recently talked up the prospect of working in La Liga.

The likes of Jurgen Klopp, Hansi Flick and Julian Nagelsmann have also been mooted as potential candidates, but it appears that Barcelona could turn their focus to Alonso.

According to Sport, Alonso is a popular name among Barcelona's board members after building a reputation as one of the most highly-rated coaches in Europe.

Leverkusen are unbeaten in all 31 competitive games this season, and they currently enjoy a five-point lead at the top of the Bundesliga table after beating title rivals Bayern Munich 3-0 in Saturday's home meeting.

Alonso has also led his side to the DFB-Pokal semi-finals and the last 16 of the Europa League by winning all six group games.

Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso reacts on November 25, 2023 © Reuters

Having been impressed by Alonso's style of football, the La Liga champions are considering whether to make an early move to secure his services amid interest from Liverpool.

The 42-year-old is believed to be the frontrunner to replace Jurgen Klopp, who will leave his position as Liverpool boss at the end of the current campaign.

There is also a question as to whether Alonso would be willing to join Barcelona after spending part of his playing career with their biggest rivals Real Madrid.

Alonso made 236 appearances during his time with Los Blancos, winning five major honours, including a La Liga title and two Champions League trophies.

Although Alonso continues to attract attention, Leverkusen director Simon Rolfes has insisted that he is "sure" the Spaniard will still be Leverkusen's head coach next season.