Xabi Alonso has been tipped to be Carlo Ancelotti's successor but refuses to discuss his future

Bayer Leverkusen head coach Xabi Alonso said he has an "unforgettable" relationship with Real Madrid but will not discuss his future at this time when asked whether he would succeed Carlo Ancelotti at the helm of Real Madrid.

According to Spanish media reports, Ancelotti has decided to step down as Real Madrid coach at the end of this season, and Alonso is considered the favorite to succeed him.

Last season, Alonso led Leverkusen to its first Bundesliga title, the German Cup and the Europa League final, where they lost to Atalanta, their only defeat of the season. These achievements made him one of the most watched young coaches, and as a former midfielder who played for Real Madrid for five years, he is seen as the natural successor to Ancelotti.

However, the Spanish coach refused to discuss his future during the season. "I can't say anything, it's the middle of the season and all teams have important goals to achieve," he told reporters. "Time passes, but the feelings towards Real Madrid remain the same. That relationship is unforgettable and worth treasuring because the bond is very strong. It was a very beautiful period as a player. Those were difficult years, but we finally achieved the results we wanted and that moment was very worth celebrating."

Alonso added: "[The rumours] have no effect on me, I haven't prepared for it and I'm not surprised. I'm more worried about the game against Atletico and that alone is enough to keep me busy."