Guardiola would leave in 2025 and Manchester City fights this coach against Real Madrid, who would lose Ancelott

As the 2024-2025 season gets underway, speculation is rife regarding potential managerial changes at some of Europe's top clubs. In particular, Real Madrid and Manchester City are reportedly keeping a close eye on Bayer Leverkusen's Xabi Alonso as a possible replacement for their current coaches.

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With Pep Guardiola's contract at Manchester City set to expire in 2025, the Premier League champions are already considering their options for the future. Alonso, who has impressed with his tactical acumen and development of young players at Leverkusen, has emerged as a leading candidate to succeed the Catalan.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid's Carlo Ancelotti is also facing an uncertain future. Although the Italian has enjoyed considerable success at the Bernabéu, there has been speculation that the club's hierarchy may look to make a change in the dugout. Alonso, with his deep-rooted connections to Spanish football, would be a popular choice among Real Madrid fans.

Battle for Alonso: Real Madrid and Manchester City Vie for Bayer Leverkusen Coach

The former Real Madrid and Bayern Munich midfielder has been tipped for a top job in European football for some time, and his impressive work at Leverkusen has only served to enhance his reputation. Alonso's playing style and tactical philosophy align well with the high-pressing, possession-based football that both Real Madrid and Manchester City strive to play.

However, any move for Alonso would not be straightforward. Both Real Madrid and Manchester City are massive clubs with high expectations, and it remains to be seen whether Alonso would be willing to take on such a demanding role at this stage of his managerial career. Additionally, Bayer Leverkusen are likely to be reluctant to lose their highly-rated coach.

As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see whether Alonso remains at Leverkusen or decides to take on a new challenge at one of Europe's biggest clubs