Fans have come up with a theory as to why Xabi Alonso will stay at Bayer Leverkusen amid interest from Liverpool and Bayern Munich.
Alonso has produced managerial heroics at Leverkusen this season as they sit at the top of the Bundesliga.
They have registered an impressive 70 points and remain unbeaten, having won 22 of their 26 league matches.
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Leverkusen's impressive form under Alonso has seen him attract interest from Liverpool and Bayern, who are both on the hunt for new managers.
Jurgen Klopp and Thomas Tuchel will leave their respective roles at the end of the season.
Alonso, who played for both clubs during his legendary career, was believed to be a strong contender.
However, Alonso is not expected to be on Liverpool's shortlist this summer.
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The Anfield club expect him to stay in Germany as new favourites have emerged to replace Klopp.
Fans and critics alike on social media think they know why the 42-year-old has turned down the chance to talk to Liverpool and Bayern.
People online are convinced he's holding out for the Real Madrid job.
"Bayern and Liverpool both give up on Alonso in a matter of hours," one X user tweeted. "So he’s staying at Leverkusen… but also, kinda, just waiting for the Real Madrid job instead."
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A second tweeted: "Makes sense for him, but damn that’s got to hurt all the Liverpool/Bayern fans out there..."
Carlo Ancelotti is currently in charge of the Bernabeu outfit. He signed a contract extension last year, keeping him at the club until June 2026.
Alonso, who also played for the La Liga giants, is admired by Florentino Perez, who is thought to be keeping tabs on him ahead of a potential appointment in the future.
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By staying at Leverkusen, the Spaniard can continue to hone his managerial skills and enjoy a Champions League campaign with the club.
Featured Image Credit: GettyTopics: Xabi Alonso, Liverpool, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, Football, Fan Reactions