Real Madrid have confirmed that Xabi Alonso has left his role as head coach of the club with immediate effect, bringing an end to a short but eventful seven-month spell at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Spanish giants announced the decision on Monday, stating that the separation was reached by mutual agreement following the club’s defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final held in Saudi Arabia.
Alonso, a former Real Madrid midfielder and club legend, was appointed head coach ahead of the 2025–26 season amid high expectations. His arrival was seen as the beginning of a new chapter, blending the club’s historic identity with a modern tactical approach shaped by his experiences both as a player and a young coach. However, despite promising performances and strong results, the partnership has come to an early conclusion.
In confirming Alonso’s departure, Real Madrid moved swiftly to appoint a replacement. Alvaro Arbeloa, who has been in charge of the club’s B team since June 2025, has been promoted to take over the senior role. Arbeloa has spent the past six years working within the Real Madrid academy structure and is regarded as a coach deeply familiar with the club’s philosophy and long-term vision.
At the time of Alonso’s exit, Real Madrid sit second in the LaLiga standings, four points behind rivals Barcelona at the midway point of the season. In Europe, the club are seventh in the Champions League table, having won four of their six matches so far and losing the other two. While the team remained competitive on multiple fronts, the Super Cup defeat appeared to be the tipping point that led to discussions between the club and the coach.
Despite the brief nature of his tenure, Alonso’s time in charge was marked by impressive efficiency. Statistically, he recorded the best win percentage of any Real Madrid head coach over the past decade, winning 71 percent of his matches during the 2025–26 season. That figure places him ahead of previous managerial spells under Carlo Ancelotti and Zinedine Zidane, both of whom enjoyed multiple trophy-laden periods with the club.
Alonso’s tactical approach was widely praised, particularly his emphasis on positional discipline, fluid midfield play, and structured pressing. Many observers noted that Real Madrid looked more balanced and controlled in several key matches, especially against top domestic and European opponents. However, football at the highest level is often judged on silverware and decisive moments, and the Super Cup loss to Barcelona ultimately proved costly.
In an official statement, Real Madrid expressed gratitude and respect for Alonso, highlighting his long-standing connection to the club. The statement emphasised that Alonso will always be regarded with affection and admiration by supporters due to his status as a former player who embodied the values of the club throughout his career.
“Xabi Alonso will always have the affection and admiration of all Madrid fans because he is a Real Madrid legend and has always represented the values of our club. Real Madrid will always be his home,” the statement said.
The club also extended its thanks to Alonso’s entire technical staff for their commitment and professionalism during their time in charge. Real Madrid wished Alonso and his team success in the next chapter of their careers, underlining that the decision was made respectfully and without animosity.
For Alonso, the departure represents a setback but not necessarily a major blow to his reputation as a coach. At just 43 years old, he remains one of the most highly regarded young managers in European football. His short spell at Real Madrid demonstrated his ability to handle elite players, manage pressure, and deliver results at the highest level, even if the overall project did not unfold as planned.
Attention now turns to Alvaro Arbeloa, who steps into one of the most demanding roles in world football. A former Real Madrid defender himself, Arbeloa is another figure closely associated with the club’s identity. His work with the B team and within the academy has earned him praise for developing young talent and instilling discipline and professionalism.
Arbeloa’s immediate challenge will be to stabilise the squad, maintain momentum in LaLiga and the Champions League, and restore confidence following recent setbacks. With the season still very much alive on multiple fronts, Real Madrid will be eager to ensure that the coaching change does not derail their pursuit of domestic and European success.
The decision to promote from within also reflects Real Madrid’s desire for continuity. By appointing a coach already familiar with the club’s structure, players, and expectations, the board appears intent on minimising disruption while reassessing its long-term strategy.
Alonso’s exit adds to a growing list of high-profile managerial departures across European football in recent seasons, highlighting the intense pressure faced by coaches at elite clubs. Even strong win percentages and competitive league positions are not always enough to guarantee long-term stability.
As Real Madrid move forward under new leadership, supporters will reflect on what might have been under Alonso, while also looking ahead to what Arbeloa can deliver in the months ahead. For Alonso, the experience is likely to serve as a valuable chapter in his coaching journey, reinforcing his credentials and preparing him for future opportunities at the highest level.
Follow Africa Live News for more sports and global football updates:
Website: https://www.africalivenews.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfricaLiveNews
X (Twitter): https://x.com/africalivenews2
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/africalivenews
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@africalivenews.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AfricaLiveNews
