Mansion Sports - Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Jonas Hofmann has publicly voiced his discontent regarding former head coach Xabi Alonso's communication style during his tenure at the club. 

Hofmann’s remarks emerged shortly after Alonso departed Leverkusen to take the managerial helm at Real Madrid, following a historic 2023–2024 season in which he led Die Werkself to their first-ever Bundesliga title.

Hofmann’s Expectations of Transparent Communication Were Unfulfilled

In an exclusive interview with Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger, Hofmann candidly expressed his disappointment with Alonso’s lack of direct engagement with players. 

According to the experienced German midfielder, a top-level coach should prioritize open dialogue and address players directly when necessary.

“I expected the coach to speak openly if something caught his attention. For me, open and direct communication is essential,” Hofmann stated. 

He emphasized that regular dialogue between coach and players is key to maintaining performance levels and optimizing training sessions.

“A coach should not go more than two weeks without speaking to his players. That level of engagement is crucial for sustaining top form,” he added.

Also Read: “Xabi Alonso Urges Real Madrid to Sign a New Midfielder for Next Season”

Diminished Role in Second Season at Leverkusen

Hofmann played an instrumental role during his debut campaign at Bayer Leverkusen, recording 46 appearances across all competitions and significantly contributing to the team’s success.

However, the 2024–2025 season marked a sharp contrast, with the 33-year-old midfielder starting only four Bundesliga matches under Alonso’s management.

“Competition within the squad is important, no doubt. But I expected something more from the coach,” Hofmann remarked, clearly expressing his frustration with the decline in his on-field role.

A Fresh Start Under Erik ten Hag

The arrival of new head coach Erik ten Hag is seen by Hofmann as a welcome opportunity to revitalize his career and reclaim a pivotal position in the team.

“A new coach brings new chances. I’m a Bundesliga man, and I’m determined to fight my way back to my best. I feel physically strong, but if Xabi Alonso had stayed, I might have considered a move elsewhere,” said the former Borussia Mönchengladbach player.

New Challenges Await Alonso at Real Madrid

Meanwhile, Xabi Alonso now faces a new chapter at Real Madrid, having taken over from Carlo Ancelotti, whose final season ended on a disappointing note. 

Despite beginning his tenure with a defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the FIFA Club World Cup semifinals, Los Blancos have shown encouraging signs during their preseason tour in the United States.

With the 2025–2026 season set to begin in less than a month, all eyes will be on Alonso to see whether he can refine his approach to leadership and foster stronger, more transparent communication with his players at one of the world’s most demanding football institutions.