Xabi Alonso has shared his heartfelt thanks to Real Madrid after his coaching role at the club concluded. His tenure lasted only seven months and faced significant challenges.
A Turbulent Seven Months in Charge
Real Madrid appointed Xabi Alonso as their head coach in 2025. He took over after a highly successful period with Bayer Leverkusen in Germany. At Leverkusen, Alonso guided the team to their first Bundesliga title without losing a single match.
However, his time at Real Madrid proved much more difficult. The club demands consistent victories and top performances. Alonso's reign was marked by several high-profile defeats.
Key Losses and Internal Issues
The team suffered losses against major European rivals. They fell to Paris St Germain in the Club World Cup. Atletico Madrid beat them in La Liga. In the Champions League, Liverpool and Manchester City both secured wins over Alonso's Real Madrid.
Internal conflicts also arose. Reports indicated ego clashes with star players. These included disagreements with co-captain Federico Valverde and winger Vinicius Junior.
The final blow came in the Spanish Super Cup final. Real Madrid lost to their historic rivals, Barcelona. This defeat left Real Madrid trailing Barcelona by four points in the league standings.
Alonso's Grateful Farewell
On Tuesday, Xabi Alonso posted a message on Instagram. He acknowledged the end of this chapter in his career.
"This stage of my career has come to an end, and it has not turned out as we would have liked. Coaching Real Madrid has been an honour and a responsibility," Alonso wrote.
He continued, "I am grateful to the club, the players and, above all, the fans. I leave with respect, gratitude and pride in having done my best."
Alonso emphasized his appreciation for the opportunity to lead the club where he once starred as a midfielder.
Alvaro Arbeloa Steps In as New Manager
Real Madrid moved quickly to name a successor. They chose another former player, Alvaro Arbeloa. The 42-year-old defender was a mainstay at the club during his playing days.
Arbeloa held his first press conference as the new Real Madrid manager. He expressed both excitement and awareness of the task ahead.
"Of course, I am aware of the responsibility and the task ahead of me, and I am very excited," Arbeloa stated. "I've found a group of players who are really eager. They share my enthusiasm to fight for everything and to win."
The club hopes Arbeloa can bring stability and success after Alonso's brief and troubled period in charge.
