In a surprising mid-season development, Real Madrid and manager Xabi Alonso have parted ways by mutual consent. The decision comes after only eight months of Alonso’s tenure at the helm of the Spanish club.
Alonso, a former Real Madrid player, returned to the Bernabéu last summer, taking over from Carlo Ancelotti. His departure sees Real Madrid positioned second in the LaLiga table, four points behind leaders Barcelona with half the season played. The team also recently fell to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final this past Sunday.
In European competition, Real Madrid’s record in the Champions League group stage was four wins and two losses, placing them seventh in the overall standings as the tournament progresses.
The club issued a statement acknowledging his contribution: “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. Our club thanks Xabi Alonso and his entire coaching staff for their work and dedication throughout this time.”
Stepping into the role is another former player, Alvaro Arbeloa. Arbeloa, who was a teammate of Alonso’s at Liverpool, has been in charge of Real Madrid’s B team since June 2025 and has six years of experience working within the club’s academy system. He has now been promoted to lead the first team.
Alonso arrived at Real Madrid after a highly successful spell managing Bayer Leverkusen in Germany, where he won the Bundesliga title in 2024. The reasons for his sudden departure at this stage of the season have not been made public. All eyes will now be on Arbeloa as he takes on one of the most high-pressure jobs in world football.