Xabi Alonso Sacking: Arne Slot Admits “No Clue” if Real Madrid Set ‘New Normal’

Real Madrid have sensationally parted ways with head coach Xabi Alonso after just seven months in charge, announcing the decision less than 24 hours after a dramatic 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final in Saudi Arabia[1][2][3][4]. The club replaced the former Bayer Leverkusen hero with Alvaro Arbeloa, who has been coaching Real Madrid's B team (Castilla) since June 2025[1][4].

Alonso, hired in summer 2025 as Carlo Ancelotti's successor, leaves with Real sitting second in LaLiga—four points behind leaders Barcelona—and seventh in the Champions League after four wins and two losses in six games[1][4]. His tenure began brilliantly with 10 straight victories but unraveled amid injuries, poor form, and tensions with star players like Vinícius Júnior and Kylian Mbappé[3][5][6]. Key flashpoints included dropping Vinícius from starting lineups, a public substitution spat during the Clásico, and Mbappé ignoring Alonso post-Super Cup[1][3]. Board frustration grew over Alonso's handling of stars, denied January signings, and a downbeat demeanor at training[3][6].

A club statement described the split as "mutual agreement," with Alonso posting a measured farewell: "Coaching Real Madrid has been an honour... I leave with respect, gratitude and pride"[1][3][5]. He exits after 34 matches (22 wins, 4 draws, 5 losses), paid only for one year of his three-year deal[3][4][5]. Spanish rules bar him from another LaLiga job this season, but international opportunities beckon[5].

Liverpool boss Arne Slot reacted to the shock news, admitting he has “no clue” if Real's quick axe sets a 'new normal' for elite clubs demanding instant success. "To win is an obligation at Madrid," Slot noted, questioning the timing despite Alonso's contract[1]. Fans and pundits debate if the pressure cooker at the Bernabéu broke another dream manager too soon[6][7].

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