In a press conference that confirmed what many had already suspected, Xabi Alonso officially announced he will step down as Bayer Leverkusen manager at the end of the season, with expectations sky-high that he will become the next head coach of Real Madrid, replacing Carlo Ancelotti.

But beyond that headline, Alonso made a statement that sparked excitement among Real Madrid supporters, and it had everything to do with Florian Wirtz.

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Wirtz has been one of the most talked-about names in European football this season. The 22-year-old midfielder has dazzled in the Bundesliga, helping Leverkusen to a historic season, and it is no surprise that some of the biggest clubs in Europe are lining up to secure his signature.

As reported before, Bayern Munich, Manchester City, and Real Madrid are said to be the three main clubs fighting for him.

Recent reports suggest Bayern Munich were in pole position to land the talented German. In fact, it is even claimed that Wirtz had already ruled out joining either Manchester City or Real Madrid, and had privately told Alonso that Bayern was his only preferred option.

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However, when Alonso was asked directly about these rumours, his answer told a different story. the Spaniard said. “That is not my information.”

Alonso’s words have breathed new life into Real Madrid’s hopes of landing Wirtz. With no firm decision yet from the player, the door remains wide open for Madrid to make their move, and perhaps, under Alonso, the youngster could be convinced to follow his current coach to the Bernabeu.

As things stand, Wirtz’s future is still undecided. But one thing is certain that Real Madrid are still very much in the running.