Xabi Alonso has officially announced his departure from Bayer Leverkusen, marking the end of an extraordinary chapter in the Bundesliga.

The Spanish tactician, who masterminded the sensational "Neverlusen" campaign, has reportedly reached a full agreement with Real Madrid and will return to the Spanish capital ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup.

Alonso’s move comes after an unforgettable run with Leverkusen, where he secured a historic domestic double last season and finishes this campaign with an impressive second place in the Bundesliga.

Rumours are already swirling about his successor. Inside sources suggest that Álvaro Arbeloa—a rising coaching star and current head of Real Madrid Castilla—is the frontrunner to take over.