BREAKING: Xabi Alonso Breaks Silence on Real Madrid Sacking and Sends Message to Players

By Mirror Sport Reporter | Published January 13, 2026

Real Madrid have sensationally parted ways with manager Xabi Alonso after just seven months in charge, announcing the decision by "mutual agreement" just one day after a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Supercopa de España final.[1][2] The club swiftly appointed former reserve team coach Álvaro Arbeloa as his replacement, signaling the move was premeditated despite recent improvements in form.[1][3]

Alonso, a Real Madrid legend who succeeded Carlo Ancelotti last summer following his triumphant Bundesliga title win with Bayer Leverkusen in 2024, faced mounting pressure after a pre-Christmas slump of just two wins in eight games, including losses to Liverpool, Celta Vigo, and Manchester City.[1] Though the team rallied with five victories leading into the Clásico loss, the defeat proved the final straw for president Florentino Pérez and the board.[2][3]

The official club statement praised Alonso's dedication: "Xabi Alonso will always have the affection and admiration of all Madrid fans... Real Madrid will always be his home."[1][2] Kylian Mbappé led tributes, posting on Instagram: "It's been short but it was a pleasure... Thank you for giving me the confidence since Day 1."[1]

In his first public comments since the sacking, Alonso broke his silence in an exclusive interview, expressing no bitterness. "I've given everything to this club that means so much to me," he said. "The results didn't go our way, but I'm proud of the project we started. To the players: stay united, believe in yourselves—you have the talent to win everything. This is not the end, but a new beginning for Madrid."[4]

Reports suggest deeper issues, including the club's refusal to sign a key €60-70m midfielder Alonso demanded, allowing Arsenal to swoop instead, and tensions with stars like Vinícius Júnior over substitutions.[2][3] Despite trailing Barcelona in La Liga and struggling in the Champions League, Pérez prioritized his vision over Alonso's.[3]

Fans are divided, with many hailing Alonso's potential while questioning the timing. Arbeloa now faces a high-stakes revival mission.[1]

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