Xabi Alonso stepped into the Metropolitano auditorium ahead of Bayer Leverkusen's final training session before their Champions League clash with Atlético Madrid (Tuesday, 9:00 p.m.), only to be immediately questioned about the rumors linking him to Real Madrid. The former Madrid player is a fan and board favorite to succeed Carlo Ancelotti, whether that happens this year or the next. As Alonso returned to the Spanish capital, now as the head coach of Leverkusen, journalists wasted no time addressing the speculation.

The first question at Xabi Alonso's press conference centered on Real Madrid, catching the manager by surprise. "Already? That fast?" Alonso quipped, before politely answering without getting too deep into the rumors. He acknowledged the enduring affection for the club and his "very strong bond" with the Merengue institution.

"I can't comment on anything. We're in the middle of the season, and all the clubs have important goals. Atlético has theirs, Madrid has theirs, and I'm focused on achieving ours," Xabi Alonso responded. He also gave a nod to his history with Real Madrid: "Time passes, but the affection remains, and that bond is unforgettable. It's something I deeply appreciate. It was a wonderful time as a player, very intense. We had to work hard to achieve our goals, but that connection still lasts," Alonso shared. His comments sparked a wave of excitement among Madrid fans.

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