He will be soon be announced as the new head coach of Real Madrid – once the departure of current boss Carlo Ancelotti is officially confirmed.
An inevitable, if bittersweet, conclusion to Ancelotti’s second spell at Real Madrid.
And finally, the much expected transition, with the Italian legend stepping aside to take charge of the Brazil national team, and the young pretender Alonso returning to the Bernabeu as his successor.
This changing of the guard, from the club’s most decorated coach to a rising star in management, is symbolic. It marks the end of an era and the beginning of a fascinating new one.
A situation facilitated by the innate reasonableness of Bayer Leverkusen who, true to their word, stood by the gentlemen’s agreement between coach and club that they would not stand in Alonso’s way should he receive an offer he could not refuse.
‘Alonso’s task at Real Madrid is enormous’
Madrid are now preparing for a future led by their former midfielder, with president Florentino Perez viewing Alonso as the long-term answer.
The 43-year-old’s success at Leverkusen has elevated his profile, and Real believe he possesses the tactical sharpness and emotional intelligence to lead a generational transition.
Last year, he led Leverkusen to a Bundesliga title, without losing a game, and the German Cup in his first full season as a senior club manager.
But the task Alonso faces at Real is enormous.
He will inherit a squad in flux, needing to balance Kylian Mbappe’s presence and Vinicius Jr’s leadership, with the Brazilian about to sign a longer contract.
Alonso will also need to integrate youngsters like Endrick and Arda Guler, phasing out the old guard and delivering trophies immediately.
He’ll also need to navigate a boardroom that wants influence, a fanbase that demands instant success, and a media environment that will hold him to impossible standards from day one.
Alonso has the tactical credentials, but this is Madrid where talent alone doesn’t guarantee survival.
Before his tenure starts, Real must win at Barcelona on Sunday to retain any realistic hopes of retaining their La Liga crown. Victory for the Catalans would put them seven points clear at the top with just three games to play.
More likely, the goodbyes have already begun.
After winning La Liga and the Champions League last season, a campaign without a trophy would serve to justify the club’s decision to end the Ancelotti era.
But before then, the Bernabeu will get its chance to applaud him one last time, to give the Italian the send-off that accurately reflects and acknowledges the enormity of his contribution to the club.
Fifteen trophies, more than any manager in the club’s history, in two eras of success, steadiness, and quiet revolution. Ancelotti brought dignity and calm to chaos. He won with style, without needing to shout, and restored order when the club was on the edge.
And now, as he prepares to leave for Brazil, Real prepare to start again with Alonso at the helm.