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Real Madrid End Coaching Contract with Xabi Alonso by Mutual Agreement

Real Madrid announced on Monday that Xabi Alonso would no longer serve as head coach of the club, with both parties agreeing to end his tenure by mutual agreement.[1] The decision comes after a disappointing run of form for the Spanish giants, including a 3-2 loss to Barcelona in the Spanish Supercopa final in Saudi Arabia over the weekend.[1]

Alonso, 44, had only been in charge for approximately seven months, having begun his duties in June 2025 as the replacement for Carlo Ancelotti on a three-year deal.[1] Club executives first discussed his future after Real Madrid suffered a 2-0 home defeat to Celta Vigo on December 7.[1]

Despite an initial promising start, Alonso's tenure proved brief and troubled. He led Madrid to the semifinals of the 2025 Club World Cup in his first assignment and made an impressive beginning to La Liga, winning their first six league matches and earning La Liga's Manager of the Month award for August.[1] However, Real Madrid's form deteriorated significantly, with the club currently trailing Barcelona by four points in the La Liga standings.[2]

Prior to joining Real Madrid, Alonso spent three years with Bayer Leverkusen, where he achieved considerable success, including leading the team to win their first Bundesliga title in 2024 without defeat—a historic first in German football.[1] He had previously played for Real Madrid between 2009 and 2014, winning La Liga and the Champions League in 2014, making him a club legend.[1]

In a statement, Real Madrid expressed appreciation for Alonso's contributions: "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] The club thanked Alonso and his coaching staff for their work and dedication, wishing them success in their future endeavors.[1] The club has yet to officially announce his replacement, though reports suggest Álvaro Arbeloa, the reserve team manager, will take over the position.[3]

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