Bayer Leverkusen are bracing for a pivotal moment as head coach Xabi Alonso nears a decision on his future, with up to 10 players potentially affected.
The Spanish tactician, widely regarded as one of Europe’s sharpest young managers, has until the end of March to confirm whether he’ll stay or go, and the ripple effects could reshape the squad for the 2025/26 season.
The German champions have already started mapping out their next campaign, but Alonso’s choice looms large.
Sport BILD have reported that his call could sway the future of star playmaker Florian Wirtz, though the outlet expects the German sensation to stick with Die Werkself until at least the 2026 World Cup. “Florian’s a cornerstone of this team,” a club insider reportedly told BILD, underlining his importance to Leverkusen’s ambitions.
Not everyone’s future looks as secure. Defender Jonathan Tah has already announced he’ll leave when his contract expires in the summer, ending a decade-long stint with the club.
Meanwhile, loan stars Nordi Mukiele and Mario Hermoso, alongside Aston Villa’s Emiliano Buendia, are unlikely to secure permanent deals, according to sources close to the team.
Up front, Victor Boniface could be on the chopping block. The Nigerian striker, once a fan favourite, has fallen out of favour and tops the list of potential summer sales. Dynamic wing-back Jeremie Frimpong, a standout in recent seasons, is also tipped to move on, with Europe’s elite clubs circling. “Jeremie’s pace and flair are world-class, he’s ready for the next step,” a Bundesliga pundit noted earlier this month.
Midfielder Jonas Hofmann’s situation is less certain. The 32-year-old won’t be forced to stay if he pushes for more minutes elsewhere, a stance that reflects Leverkusen’s pragmatic approach.
Full-back Arthur, meanwhile, has struggled to kick on, and his lack of progress might see him shipped out. Aleix Garcia, signed to bolster the midfield, hasn’t clicked under Alonso and has been given the green light to explore other options.
Alonso himself has kept his cards close to his chest, but recent updates on X suggest the club remain optimistic. Bayer Leverkusen’s official account posted on March 19, hinting at confidence in their boss: “Planning for the future with ambition, stay tuned.” Posts from fans on X also point to a belief that Alonso will extend his stay, citing sources claiming an announcement could drop at a press conference on March 27.
