Spanish Media's Xabi Alonso Verdict Clear as Replacement Already in Real Madrid Firing Line

Real Madrid have parted ways with manager Xabi Alonso after just six months in charge, following a dramatic 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Supercopa de España final in Jeddah.[1][2][3]

The club announced the decision on Monday, January 12, 2026, framing it as a "mutual agreement," though Spanish media widely describe it as a sacking.[1][2][3][4] Alonso, a Real Madrid legend as a player, joined on May 25, 2025, replacing Carlo Ancelotti ahead of the Club World Cup. His tenure lasted 232 days and around 34 matches, yielding 22-24 wins but ending with five defeats, including boos from fans after a 2-0 loss to Celta Vigo.[1][2][3][4]

Real sit second in LaLiga, four points behind Hansi Flick's Barcelona after 19 games, and seventh in the Champions League with four wins from six.[1][2][3] Reports cite dressing room tensions, particularly with stars like Vinicius Junior, Federico Valverde, and Jude Bellingham, who clashed over his tactics and leadership. Alonso himself reportedly felt the squad wasn't buying into his style post-Club World Cup.[3][4][7]

The club's statement praised Alonso: "Xabi Alonso will always have the affection and admiration of all Madrid fans... Real Madrid will always be his home."[2][3][6] Players like Kylian Mbappé and Rodrygo paid tribute online, though notably absent from Vinicius and Bellingham.[4][7]

Stepping up is Álvaro Arbeloa, 42, former Real right-back and current Castilla coach since June 2025. The club academy product gets his first senior chance, with his debut in Wednesday's Copa del Rey against Albacete. Spanish media already question if the reserve boss can unite a fractured squad trailing rivals.[1][2][3][4][6]

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