Xabi Alonso Now Firm Favourite to Take Charge at London Club After Real Madrid Sack

Xabi Alonso has emerged as the firm favourite to become the next manager of Tottenham Hotspur, a London Premier League club, following his abrupt departure from Real Madrid.[1][2][4]

Alonso parted ways with Real Madrid on Monday via mutual agreement, just 233 days after taking over from Carlo Ancelotti in May 2025. His exit came less than 24 hours after a 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final, ending a tenure with 24 wins in 34 matches but mounting pressure from unresponsive players.[1][4][5] Real Madrid appointed former Liverpool and Real defender Alvaro Arbeloa as his replacement, praising Alonso as a club legend.[4]

Tottenham, currently languishing in 14th place under manager Thomas Frank and already eliminated from the FA Cup, are reportedly making progress in talks to appoint the 44-year-old Spaniard.[1][2][3] Bookmakers have installed Alonso at 4/1 odds to take the Spurs job, ahead of Oliver Glasner (5/1), Marco Silva (6/1), and Enzo Maresca (8/1). Mauricio Pochettino, currently US national team coach, is a 16/1 outsider for a Spurs return post-2026 World Cup.[3][4]

Spanish media and outlets like Fichajes highlight Tottenham's interest, fueled by Alonso's success at Bayer Leverkusen, where he won the 2024 Bundesliga title.[1][2][5] However, Liverpool, Manchester United, Manchester City, Bayern Munich, and Bundesliga clubs remain admirers, complicating the race.[1][3][6] Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano notes Alonso's high industry regard and readiness for an immediate return, despite the Madrid setback.[3]

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick backed Alonso for a swift new role, calling him a "fantastic coach" with a "great future."[5] Tottenham views him as ideal for a long-term rebuild, with no transfer fee needed as a free agent.[3] Sources indicate Spurs must offer a compelling vision to fend off rivals.[1][3]

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