Alonso was only in charge since June
Real Madrid have confirmed that Xabi Alonso has left his role as first team head coach after just over seven months in charge, with Sunday’s 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final proving decisive. The loss to their biggest rivals, combined with Madrid sitting four points behind Barcelona at the top of La Liga, brought an abrupt end to Alonso’s brief tenure on the Bernabéu bench.
Alvaro Arbeloa will take over effective immediately.
Alonso officially began his role on June 1, arriving in Madrid after a highly successful spell at Bayer Leverkusen, where he won the domestic double in the 2023/24 season and guided the club to the Europa League final. His start in Madrid was encouraging. After overseeing a run to the Club World Cup semi-finals, Alonso led the team to 13 wins in his next 14 matches, with the only blemish a heavy derby defeat to Atlético Madrid.
Momentum shifted in early November, however, when a loss at Liverpool on 4 November triggered a downturn in form. Madrid managed just two wins in an eight-game stretch, raising concerns inside the club hierarchy. Although Alonso steadied the ship with a subsequent run of five consecutive victories, it ultimately failed to restore full confidence among decision-makers.
With Barcelona pulling clear in the title race and another Clásico defeat on a major stage, Real Madrid’s leadership opted for change. Alonso departs with his reputation intact, but his first managerial chapter at the club he once captained has come to an unexpectedly swift conclusion.
Real Madrid Official Statement
“Real Madrid C. F. wishes to announce that, by mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to bring his time as first team coach to an end.
“Xabi Alonso will always carry the affection and admiration of all Madridistas because he is a Real Madrid legend and has always represented the values of our club. Real Madrid will always be his home.
“We would like to thank Xabi Alonso and all his coaching staff for their hard work and dedication throughout this time, and wish them the best of luck in this new stage of their lives.”
