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Xavi Hernández, candidate to manage Bayer Leverkusen if Alonso signs for Real Madrid
Published New:1/05/2025 - 14:09h
Updated New:1/05/2025 - 14:30h
Xavi Hernández is rumored as a possible Leverkusen coach if Xabi Alonso leaves for Real Madrid in this market
Xavi Hernández is probably one of the most sought-after coaches currently in the free agent market. And why not? Although his spell in charge of FC Barcelona ended turbulently at the close of the 2023-24 season —with the culé team finishing the season 'blank' and in the midst of a game crisis— the former Catalan midfielder is still highly valued for what he demonstrated in terms of game proposal.
During his time as a Barça coach, the Terrassa native managed to implement an attractive footballing idea, based on the classic 'made in La Masia' style. His approach focused on possession as the principle of the game, both to attack and to control the rhythm of the match, with a clear modern tiki-taka tint.
- 📊 XAVI HERNÁNDEZ'S NUMBERS AS FC BARCELONA COACH: 143 games, 91 wins, 23 draws and 29 losses.
In turn, Xavi Hernández knew how to bet on young talent. Under his leadership, names like Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsí debuted, which speaks of his great vision for detecting and developing promising players.
The interest of big clubs: Xavi remains in the orbit of the elite
It is not surprising that, despite having expressed his intention to take a break after his demanding time at Barcelona, several 'top' teams have shown interest in his services. At the time, he was linked with teams like Manchester United, which finally opted for Rúben Amorim, after getting rid of Erik Ten Hag, and also with Juventus before replacing Thiago Motta with Igor Tudor.
However, the Egarense seems ready to return to the dugout. He expressed this in an interview given to France Football in March 2025, in which he left the door open to his return:
"I have nothing set, I am open to hearing offers. Why not coach another LaLiga team? I am looking for an exciting project, I have the ambition to win trophies"
Bayer Leverkusen could be his new destination
According to the German media outlet Kicker, Xavi Hernández appears on the list of possible candidates to manage Bayer Leverkusen if Xabi Alonso finally decides to leave before his contract expires in 2026. 'Die Werkself' would like to maintain a line of footballing continuity in case the Tolosarra coach makes the jump to Real Madrid, as has been rumored.
| Characteristic | Xavi Hernández | Xabi Alonso | Highlighted Coincidences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic tactical system | 4-3-3 | 3-4-2-1 / 3-5-2 | Both prioritize numerical superiority in midfield |
| Playing style | Dominant possession, clean exit, modern tiki-taka | Positional game, high pressure and controlled verticality | Focus on controlling the game from the ball |
| Training philosophy | Strong commitment to youth academy players | Development of young talent (e.g., Wirtz, Frimpong) | Promotion and development of young talents |
| Pressure after loss | Coordinated, but less aggressive than Alonso | Highly intense and organized | Fast defensive transitions |
| Inspirational references | Cruyff, Guardiola | Guardiola, Klopp | Similar influences of positional football |
| Tactical mentality | More conservative in adverse contexts | More flexible, with transitions and tactical adjustments | Ability to adapt according to the opponent |
Competition for the bench: Ten Hag and Imanol also in sight
Xavi Hernández is not the only candidate in Leverkusen's orbit. Kicker also points out that Erik Ten Hag, free after his time at Manchester United, is a solid alternative. To that list would be added Imanol Alguacil, who will leave Real Sociedad at the end of this season.
Even so, due to the similarity of styles and footballing philosophy, the Egarense would have a certain advantage over other names if the departure of Xabi Alonso from Leverkusen this summer materializes.
