Xabi Alonso Replaced by Former Liverpool Teammate Álvaro Arbeloa as Real Madrid Manager

Real Madrid have sensationally parted ways with head coach Xabi Alonso after just seven months in charge, appointing Álvaro Arbeloa—a former Liverpool and Real Madrid teammate of Alonso—as his immediate replacement[1][2][3][5][6]. The decision, announced on January 12, 2026, came just one day after a 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final in Saudi Arabia[1][3][4].

Described as a "mutual agreement" by the club, Real Madrid's official statement thanked Alonso and his staff for their "work and dedication," affirming he remains a "Real Madrid legend" who will always have the club's affection[1][2][4][6]. Alonso, 44, took over in summer 2025 following Carlo Ancelotti's departure to the Brazil national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Prior to Madrid, he achieved an unbeaten Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal double with Bayer Leverkusen in 2024[1][3][4].

During his tenure, Alonso managed around 34 matches across all competitions, recording approximately 22-24 wins, 4 draws, and 5-6 losses[2][3]. Despite a strong start—including six straight LaLiga wins and the 2025 Club World Cup semifinals—recent poor form, including a 2-0 home loss to Celta Vigo on December 7, sealed his exit[4]. Real sit second in LaLiga, four points behind leaders Barcelona, and seventh in the Champions League with four wins from six games[1][3].

"Real Madrid C.F. announces that Álvaro Arbeloa is the new head coach of the first team. Arbeloa has been the coach of Castilla since June 2025."[3][6][7]

Arbeloa, a former defender who played alongside Alonso at Liverpool, Real Madrid, and for Spain (2009-2016, over 200 appearances), has excelled with Madrid's youth setup since 2020, leading the B team (Castilla) since June 2025[1][2][3][5][6][7]. There are no indications he is interim, with the club moving swiftly post-Super Cup[5]. Fans and analysts express shock at the timing, given Madrid's competitive standing, but high expectations at the Bernabéu demand instant results[1][5].

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