Real Madrid Part Ways with Xabi Alonso After Supercopa Loss, Appoint Álvaro Arbeloa as Replacement

Real Madrid have announced the departure of manager Xabi Alonso by mutual consent, just seven months after he replaced Carlo Ancelotti at the Santiago Bernabéu. The decision came less than 24 hours after a dramatic 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Supercopa final in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.[1][2][3]

Alonso, a club legend from his playing days, joined from Bayer Leverkusen last summer following their 2024 German league and cup double. Despite a strong start, recent poor form mounted pressure, with Madrid sitting second in LaLiga (four points behind Barcelona), seventh in the Champions League (four wins, two losses from six games), and out of the Supercopa.[2][3]

Club reports highlighted dressing room unrest and midfield issues after the exits of Toni Kroos and Luka Modric, despite stars like Kylian Mbappé and a top goalkeeper.[1][2] Madrid's official statement praised Alonso's values and dedication, affirming the Bernabéu as his eternal home.[1]

In a swift move, Real Madrid named Álvaro Arbeloa as the new head coach. The former defender, who coached the B team (Castilla) since June 2025 and worked in the academy, steps up to the senior role. A 2010 World Cup and double Euro winner with Spain (56 caps), Arbeloa brings internal success and familiarity.[1][2][3]

In his debut news conference on Tuesday, Arbeloa backed his "incredible squad" – including players with "six European Cups" – and called for a "new start" from zero. He praised Vinícius Júnior's Supercopa performance and expressed excitement ahead of a Copa del Rey tie at Albacete, with LaLiga, Champions League, and Copa del Rey still in contention.[3]

Arbeloa revealed he learned of the change Monday afternoon, spoke amicably with Alonso (a close friend), and is eager to harness the team's talent for trophies.[3] Fans and pundits watch as the former Madrid full-back tackles one of football's biggest jobs.[1][2]

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