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20th February 2026
09:56am GMT
Former Real Madrid and Bayern Leverkusen head coach Xabi Alonso has reportedly rejected an approach from one of Europe's top clubs, over concerns that the environment would have been too chaotic.
Alonso and Real Madrid parted company in January, after the 44-year-old had lost 3-2 to Barcelona in the Super Cup.
The Spanish coach had previously become the first manager in a decade to beat Bayern Munich to a Bundesliga title, and is known for coaching teams to play attractive attacking football.
Despite boasting such an impressive CV, Alonso will not be returning to management in the next few weeks.
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According to a report in French outlet RMC Sport, Xabi Alonso turned down an approach from Ligue 1 side Marseille.
The French giants are on the lookout for a new head coach following the departure of Roberto di Zerbi earlier this month.
Per the report, one of the key reasons why Alonso turned down the approach was an 'unstable situation' at the club.
Suggestions of chaos behind the scenes have come about following the resignation of the club's sporting director Mehdi Benatia last weekend.
The 38-year-old former Bayern Munich player, first resigned days after di Zerbi's exit, citing "a breakdown in communication" at board level, before later being persuaded to return by Marseille owner Frank McCourt.
Amidst all the changes, Alonso has opted to bide his time and wait out for another opportunity to arise.
Aside from Marseille, it has also been reported that Xabi Alonso will be a target for the likes of Liverpool, Man City and Man United this summer.
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