Real Madrid have officially confirmed that Xabi Alonso’s time as head coach has come to an end, with both parties agreeing to separate after just over seven months in charge.
The former midfield maestro, who returned to the Santiago Bernabéu in a managerial capacity on May 25, 2025, departs after a spell that failed to meet expectations. Despite arriving from a highly successful stint with Bayer Leverkusen, Alonso was unable to deliver the consistency required in Spain.
Los Blancos currently sit four points behind Barcelona in the La Liga title race after 19 matches — a situation that placed the club under growing pressure.
Supercopa Defeat Proves Costly
Alonso’s exit came less than 24 hours after Real Madrid’s dramatic 3–2 loss to Barcelona in the Supercopa de España, played in Saudi Arabia. That result appears to have accelerated internal discussions already underway.
In total, the 44-year-old oversaw 34 matches, winning 24 of them. However, fan frustration became increasingly visible, particularly after a 2–0 home defeat to Celta Vigo in December, when sections of the Bernabéu crowd voiced their displeasure.
Club Statement Confirms Departure
Real Madrid announced the decision through an official statement on Monday, January 12:
> “Real Madrid CF confirms that, following mutual discussions, the club and Xabi Alonso have agreed to bring his tenure as first-team coach to a close.
Xabi Alonso will always be held in the highest regard by Madrid supporters. As a club legend who embodies our values, Real Madrid will always remain his home.
We thank him and his coaching staff for their professionalism and commitment, and wish them every success in the future.”
Álvaro Arbeloa Takes Charge
The club also revealed that Álvaro Arbeloa will step up as the new first-team head coach.
The former Real Madrid and Spain defender has been in charge of the club’s reserve side since June 2025, following several years working within the youth system. His promotion marks a continuation of Madrid’s tradition of trusting former players with leadership roles.
During his playing career, Arbeloa made 238 appearances for Real Madrid between 2009 and 2016, winning an impressive collection of honours — including two Champions League titles, La Liga, two Copa del Rey trophies, and multiple international and domestic super cups.
At international level, he was part of Spain’s golden generation, lifting the 2008 and 2012 European Championships as well as the 2010 World Cup.
What’s Next for Real Madrid?
Arbeloa will take charge immediately, beginning with a Copa del Rey round-of-16 clash against Albacete on Wednesday, January 14.
His first La Liga test will follow on Saturday, January 17, when Real Madrid welcome Levante to the Santiago Bernabéu — a fixture that will mark the start of a new chapter at the club.
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