Alonso Out at Real Madrid by Mutual Agreement, Arbeloa Named New Coach

Real Madrid announced on Monday that Xabi Alonso has left his role as first-team coach by mutual consent, just one day after a 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Supercopa de España final in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.[1][2][3][4]

The club swiftly appointed Álvaro Arbeloa, previously coach of Real Madrid's reserve team Castilla since June 2025, as his replacement. Arbeloa has spent years in the club's youth academy.[1][2][3][5][6]

Alonso, 44, took over from Carlo Ancelotti last summer on a three-year deal, following his triumphant spell at Bayer Leverkusen where he led them to an unbeaten Bundesliga title in 2024. A former Real Madrid player from 2009-2014, he won a Champions League, LaLiga, and two Copas del Rey during his playing career.[1][2][4]

His tenure began strongly: Real Madrid reached the semifinals of the 2025 Club World Cup (losing 4-0 to PSG) and started the 2025-26 season with 13 wins in 14 games, including a 2-1 Clásico victory over Barcelona. However, pressure mounted before Christmas after a poor run of just two wins in eight matches, with losses to Liverpool, Celta Vigo, and Manchester City. Form improved with five wins leading up to the Supercopa loss.[1][2][3][4]

Currently, Real Madrid sit second in LaLiga, four points behind Barcelona, and seventh in the Champions League with four wins from six games.[3]

"Real Madrid C.F. announces that, by mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to end his tenure as first-team coach. Xabi Alonso will always have the affection and admiration of all Madrid fans... Real Madrid will always be his home."[1][2][3][4][5]

The club thanked Alonso and his staff for their dedication, wishing them well. His 200+ day stint included around 29-34 matches.[1][5][6]

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