Real Madrid have announced the departure of head coach Xabi Alonso following a mutual agreement between both parties, with former defender Álvaro Arbeloa named as his replacement.
The club confirmed the decision on Monday, barely 24 hours after Los Blancos suffered a 3 2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final.
In an official statement, Real Madrid praised Alonso for his commitment and described him as a club legend, noting that he would always retain the respect and affection of the Madrid faithful. The club also expressed gratitude to Alonso’s technical crew and wished them success in their future careers.
Alonso took charge in June 2025 after leaving Bayer Leverkusen, replacing Carlo Ancelotti, who later assumed the role of head coach of the Brazil national team. His reign began under intense scrutiny following a difficult Club World Cup campaign, which included a heavy semi final defeat to Paris Saint Germain.
Despite an encouraging start to the LaLiga season and being named Manager of the Month in August, Madrid’s form declined as the season progressed. A series of inconsistent results, coupled with reported dressing room tensions and a prolonged disagreement with Vinícius Júnior over game time, heightened pressure on the former midfielder.
Although a strong run of results during the festive period briefly steadied the situation, Sunday’s Super Cup loss proved decisive.
Arbeloa now steps into the role after serving as head coach of Real Madrid’s B team since May 2025. The former Spain international previously worked with the club’s youth sides and has enjoyed notable success at academy level.
