Real Madrid Ends Xabi Alonso's Coaching Tenure by Mutual Agreement, Appoints Álvaro Arbeloa

Real Madrid announced on Monday that they have parted ways with head coach Xabi Alonso by mutual agreement, just seven months after his appointment.[1][2] The decision follows a disappointing 3-2 loss to Barcelona in the Spanish Supercopa final in Saudi Arabia, marking the final game under Alonso's leadership.[2][3]

The club's official statement expressed gratitude and admiration: "Real Madrid C.F. announces that, by mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to end Alonso's tenure as head coach of the first team. Xabi Alonso will always have the affection and admiration of all Real 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."[1][2][4] The club thanked Alonso and his staff for their dedication, wishing them success ahead.[1]

Alonso, 44, took over in June 2025, replacing Carlo Ancelotti on a three-year deal.[2][3] A former Real Madrid player (2009-2014), he won La Liga and the Champions League during his playing career there.[2] Coming from Bayer Leverkusen, where he achieved an unbeaten Bundesliga title in 2024, Alonso started strongly at Madrid—winning the first six La Liga matches and earning Manager of the Month for August, plus reaching the 2025 Club World Cup semifinals.[2][4]

However, form dipped with inconsistencies, including a 2-0 home loss to Celta Vigo on December 7, prompting executive discussions.[2] Real Madrid now sits second in La Liga, four points behind Barcelona, amid struggles in Europe.[3][4]

Immediately, Real Madrid appointed Álvaro Arbeloa, 42, as replacement. The former player and Alonso teammate has managed the reserve team (Castilla) since June 2025, building his career in the club's academy.[3][4] No contract duration was specified, positioning Arbeloa as the internal choice to stabilize the squad.[3][4]

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