Real Madrid Confidencial The spectacular farewell to Xabi Alonso while Real Madrid lost the clásico
The Basque coach played his last match at Bay Arena before leaving Leverkusen
Xabi Alonso experienced an emotional moment this Sunday in his last home match as Bayer Leverkusen's coach. The Spaniard, idolized by the club's fans, whom he has led to glory during his time in charge, ended visibly moved.
The previous Friday, Xabi Alonso had announced his intention to make this last home game a celebration to enjoy with his people. After confirming his departure from the club at the end of the season, the coach did not want to say goodbye in a cold manner, like through a statement.
Thus, after hearing the news, the fans prepared a great tribute that unfolded at the end of the match against Dortmund. Although the 2-4 defeat took a back seat, the true celebration with the stands was what marked the afternoon.
Xabi Alonso, the most beloved by the German fans
In addition to receiving a tribute painting and the plaque with his name installed on a city street, "Xabi-Alonso-Allee", as recognition for his achievement last year—the conquest of the German Cup and the Bundesliga, along with the lost final of the Europa League and the German Super Cup this season—, Xabi Alonso was cheered by the fans.
Moved, he went up to the stands where the most passionate supporters have been cheering him on for the past two years.
With only one last match to play, which no longer holds much significance against Mainz, Xabi Alonso seems ready to pack his bags. Everything points to his destination being Madrid, where he is expected to take the coaching position, succeeding Ancelotti.
The result was the least important
Unfortunately for Xabi Alonso, Bayer Leverkusen couldn't achieve victory in the Basque's last home match. The locals started by taking the lead with a goal from Frimpong, but Borussia Dortmund turned the match around. Up to four goals from the visitors sealed the game.
Finally, a goal from Hofmann in the 92nd minute softened the scoreline. Nevertheless, Bayer Leverkusen has the second position more than secured, so the defeat took a back seat.
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