Real Madrid Sack Xabi Alonso After Barcelona Defeat in Spanish Supercup Final

Real Madrid have sensationally parted ways with manager Xabi Alonso after just seven months in charge, following a 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Supercup final. The club announced the decision on Monday evening, less than 12 hours after the team returned to Madrid, in a move described as mutual consent across multiple reports.[1][2][3]

Alonso, a Real Madrid legend as a player from 2009-2014, joined as head coach in summer 2025 to replace Carlo Ancelotti, who departed for the Brazil national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Despite his triumphant spell at Bayer Leverkusen—where he won the Bundesliga and dethroned Bayern Munich—Alonso struggled to replicate that success at the Bernabeu. His record stood at 22 wins, four draws, and five defeats in all competitions.[1][2]

The Basque coach's tenure was marred by early exits, including a semi-final loss at the Club World Cup and now the Supercup final heartbreak against Hansi Flick's Barcelona. Real Madrid currently sit second in La Liga, four points behind leaders Barcelona, and seventh in the Champions League table with four wins and two defeats from six matches.[1][2]

"Real Madrid C.F. announces that, by mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to end his tenure as first-team coach. Xabi Alonso will always have the affection and admiration of all Madrid fans because he is a Real Madrid legend."[1][2]

In a surprise twist, the club immediately appointed Alvaro Arbeloa as the new head coach. The former Real Madrid defender has been coaching Castilla since June 2025 and developed his career within the club's academy since 2020. The official statement praised Arbeloa's internal progression.[2]

Real Madrid thanked Alonso and his staff for their dedication, wishing them well. The move shocks the football world, raising questions about the club's direction amid a competitive La Liga title race and Champions League campaign.[1][2][3]

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