Xabi Alonso's return to Real Madrid is practically a fact. But he is not coming back alone. The Spanish coach will land on the white bench with a clear plan and a signing that could hurt Barcelona a lot.
End of an Era in Germany
This Friday, Xabi Alonso officially announced that he will leave Bayer Leverkusen at the end of the season. In a press conference, he confirmed it: "The club and I have decided that these will be my last two games." The 43-year-old coach thus closes a brilliant chapter in Germany and prepares to return home.
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For five seasons he was a player for Madrid. Now he returns as a coach, and everything indicates that he will do so to replace Carlo Ancelotti after the Club World Cup.
Madrid Needs Center-Backs
In Valdebebas they are clear: reinforcements are needed urgently in defense. The injuries of David Alaba and Éder Militao have left the white defense trembling and Xabi knows it.
Therefore, one of his first moves will be to request a proven center-back. His name: Jonathan Tah.
A Blow to Barça
Jonathan Tah has been on FC Barcelona's radar for months. There is even a verbal agreement to sign him for five seasons, until 2030. However, the economic reality of the Catalan club complicates everything.
Without room in the 'fair play', Barça can't sign until they close the sale of the VIP seats of the new Camp Nou before June 30. Those 100 million would be key to returning to the 1:1 rule.
Meanwhile, Madrid is moving. With Xabi Alonso's blessing, the whites have already contacted the defender's entourage to get ahead. And the player himself, knowing he will leave for free at the end of the 24-25 season, sees the merengue option favorably.
Tah: A Center-Back with Present and Future
At 29 years old, Jonathan Tah is experiencing the best moment of his career. An absolute leader in Leverkusen, Bundesliga champion, he is a serious, powerful defender with international experience. He fits perfectly into the play style Alonso proposes.
The Basque coach trusts him. He knows him, has coached him, and knows he can become a pillar for his new project.
Cold War in the Market
Tah's signing promises to be the first showdown between Xabi Alonso's new Madrid and Barça. A move that could set the tone for the next season. Not only for what one gains but for what the other loses.
The German center-back has already informed Leverkusen of his intention to leave. And while Barça waits to balance the numbers, Madrid is already preparing the offer. Everything points to Jonathan Tah being Xabi's first gift for Bernabéu and another thorn in the side of the eternal rival.