Xabi Alonso has left his role as Real Madrid head coach
Real Madrid have dismissed Xabi Alonso as first-team head coach, bringing his time at the Santiago Bernabéu to an end by mutual consent, with the club moving quickly to appoint Álvaro Arbeloa as his replacement.
Alonso, who joined the 15-time Champions League winners at the start of the 2025/26 season from Bayer Leverkusen, leaves with Madrid still competing on multiple fronts, sitting second in La Liga and actively involved in the Champions League.
However, internal dissatisfaction over performances and the team’s direction led the club to act before the decisive phase of the season. Despite strong numbers, the hierarchy opted for change as pressure mounted to deliver silverware.
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During his 34 matches in charge, Alonso recorded 24 wins, four draws, and six defeats. His team scored 72 goals, conceded 38, and kept 10 clean sheets. They also reached the semi-finals of the FIFA Club World Cup and finished runners-up in the 2026 Spanish Super Cup.
While these figures reflected attacking promise and relative stability, Real Madrid’s demanding standards meant that anything short of clear dominance was never going to be enough.
In confirming the decision, the club said Alonso departed with immediate effect and praised his legacy.
“Real Madrid CF announces that, by mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to end his time as coach of the first team. Xabi Alonso will always have the affection and admiration of all madridismo 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 technical team for their work and dedication throughout this time, and wishes them the best of luck in this new stage of their lives,” the statement read.
Real Madrid also announced that Álvaro Arbeloa, previously in charge of Castilla, has been appointed as the new first-team head coach as the club looks to salvage its season and push for trophies.
FKA/MA
