Xabi Alonso Reveals Regret After Real Madrid Exit – “Having Done My Best”

Xabi Alonso has expressed a sense of regret following his departure from Real Madrid after less than eight months in charge, despite claiming he gave his all during a challenging tenure marked by poor results and internal conflicts.[1]

Real Madrid announced Alonso's exit on Monday night, framing it as a "mutual agreement," though sources indicate it was effectively a sacking. The decision came swiftly after a 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final in Saudi Arabia, leaving Madrid four points behind LaLiga leaders Barcelona.[2] Alonso's time at the Bernabeu was turbulent, with a mid-season slump seeing just two wins in eight games, including losses to Liverpool, Celta Vigo, and Manchester City. Form had briefly improved with five victories leading into the Clásico loss.[2]

A key factor in the dismissal was Alonso's strained relationship with star winger Vinícius Júnior. Tensions erupted during an October Clásico when Vinícius reacted angrily to a substitution, leading to multiple subsequent benchings and damaged ties. Notably, Vinícius and Jude Bellingham have not publicly reacted to Alonso's departure, unlike several teammates.[2]

Players like Kylian Mbappé paid heartfelt tributes on social media. Mbappé bid farewell to the former Liverpool midfielder, while Rodrygo thanked Alonso for "trust, learning, and moments shared." Thibaut Courtois, Antonio Rüdiger, and Dani Carvajal also expressed gratitude.[2]

In his reaction, Alonso conveyed disappointment but pride in his efforts: “Having done my best” amid the fallout. The club has appointed Álvaro Arbeloa, coach of Madrid's reserves, as interim replacement.[2] Speculation swirls about Alonso's next move, with Liverpool links resurfacing given his iconic playing career there.[1][2]

ESPN FC podcasters debated if Alonso was ever the right fit for Madrid's high-pressure environment, highlighting mismatched expectations despite his managerial promise elsewhere.[4]

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