Xabi Alonso addresses Real Madrid rumors as speculation about Carlo Ancelotti's future grows.

Xabi Alonso has said he's "very calm" despite being linked to taking charge at Real Madrid, with speculation over the future of Carlo Ancelotti.

At a press conference on Monday, Xabi Alonso was asked about the speculation and made no secret of the special relationship he has with Real Madrid, who he represented as a player. "Time passes, but the affection remains. My bond with Real is strong, that's clear, but my focus is now on Bayer Leverkusen ," Xabi Alonso said, adding:

Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso has been touted as a future Real Madrid coach for some time now, and reports that Carlo Ancelotti is set to leave the Spanish capital this summer have reignited the

Xabi Alonso has identified Bayer Leverkusen's Florian Wirtz as his top transfer target should he become the new Real Madrid manager.