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Xabi Alonso was dismissed as Real Madrid's manager following a disappointing 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final. His tenure lasted just over seven months, marked by increasing pressure due to poor results and a lack of cohesion within the team. The loss to their arch-rivals was seen as the final straw, leading to his sacking by mutual agreement with the club.
Alonso's tenure at Real Madrid began in May 2025 when he signed a three-year contract to succeed Carlo Ancelotti. He was initially celebrated for his return, having been a club legend as a player. His appointment raised hopes of a fresh approach, but the early optimism quickly waned as results failed to meet expectations.
Before joining Real Madrid, Xabi Alonso had a successful managerial stint at Bayer Leverkusen, where he showcased his tactical acumen and led the team to significant victories. His ability to develop players and implement an attractive style of play earned him recognition, making him a sought-after candidate for top clubs, including Real Madrid.
Álvaro Arbeloa is a former Real Madrid defender and Alonso's successor as head coach. Known for his strong work ethic and tactical discipline during his playing days, Arbeloa aims to instill a similar mentality in his coaching. His style is expected to reflect a more pragmatic approach, potentially drawing inspiration from his time under José Mourinho.
As the new head coach, Álvaro Arbeloa faces several challenges, including restoring team morale after Alonso's abrupt departure and addressing the tactical inconsistencies that plagued the squad. He must also manage player relationships, particularly with stars like Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham, while navigating the pressures of high expectations at a club like Real Madrid.
The reaction among players to Xabi Alonso's sacking was mixed. Some, like Kylian Mbappé, expressed support for Alonso, highlighting the bond they shared. However, Jude Bellingham publicly denied rumors of a rift between him and Alonso, emphasizing that such claims were unfounded. This suggests a divided sentiment within the squad regarding the managerial change.
Alonso's dismissal has significant implications for Real Madrid's season, as the team must quickly adapt to Arbeloa's coaching style while aiming to compete for titles. The loss of momentum following the Super Cup defeat could affect player confidence, and the new manager's ability to stabilize the squad will be crucial for their ambitions in La Liga and other competitions.
Alonso's sacking aligns with Real Madrid's history of quick managerial changes, often following disappointing results. Similar to previous firings, such as those of Julen Lopetegui and Santiago Solari, the decision reflects the club's high expectations and intolerance for failure. This pattern illustrates the intense pressure faced by coaches at one of the world's most successful football clubs.
Kylian Mbappé's future at Real Madrid may be influenced by Alonso's departure, as he had expressed support for the former manager. With a new coach in place, Mbappé will need to adapt to Arbeloa's tactics and vision. Additionally, speculation about his role in the team and potential transfer rumors could intensify, depending on how the new manager utilizes him.
Following his dismissal from Real Madrid, Xabi Alonso is likely to attract interest from various clubs across Europe. His successful management at Bayer Leverkusen has positioned him as a promising candidate for top-tier teams. Additionally, speculation about a potential return to Liverpool, where he is a club legend, adds intrigue to his future career prospects in management.
