Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso has finally responded to growing speculation linking him with the Real Madrid job. Rumors suggest that current boss Carlo Ancelotti may step down earlier than expected.

Xabi Alonso has been heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid over the past 12 months and could return to the Bernabeu in the summer, with Carlo Ancelotti seeking a new challenge

Amid the uncertainty surrounding his future, Ancelotti's former player, Alonso, continues to be linked with the managerial hot seat at the Santiago Bernabeu. The former Real Madrid midfielder played down the speculation when reporters asked about the rumours in Monday's pre-match press conference.