Context:

Real Madrid is set to appoint Xabi Alonso as their new manager, aiming to have him lead the team for the upcoming Club World Cup in June. Alonso, who recently announced his departure from Bayer Leverkusen, is expected to travel to Madrid by June 1 to prepare the squad for their first match against Al-Hilal. Current manager Carlo Ancelotti will be given a send-off at the last home game of the season, although the club has not yet publicly confirmed his exit or Alonso's arrival. Conversations between Alonso and Real Madrid began months ago, with a verbal agreement reached by March and negotiations focusing on details in recent weeks. The Spanish club also hopes to finalize the signing of Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold before the tournament begins.

Dive Deeper:

• Real Madrid plans to have Xabi Alonso take over as manager in time for the Club World Cup, with Alonso expected to be in Madrid by June 1 to prepare for the first match on June 18 against Saudi team Al-Hilal.

• Alonso is leaving Bayer Leverkusen at the end of the season, despite his initial intention not to join Real Madrid this early, as conversations with the club last week prompted a change in plans.

• Carlo Ancelotti, the current manager, will receive a farewell, likely during the final home game against Real Sociedad on May 25, although his departure and Alonso's appointment have not been publicly confirmed by Real Madrid.

• Discussions with Alonso began months ago, with the club informing him he would be the replacement if Ancelotti did not continue, and a verbal agreement was established by March.

• Real Madrid considers the Club World Cup an important competition and has communicated to Alonso that he should assume managerial duties in the USA for the tournament.

• The team is also looking to secure the signing of Liverpool's full-back, Trent Alexander-Arnold, before the Club World Cup, enhancing their squad for the competition.

• Alonso's previous managerial success includes leading Leverkusen to a Bundesliga title and German Cup victory in his first full season, and he has expressed interest in managing Liverpool in the future.