Real Madrid has parted ways with manager Xabi Alonso just seven months into his tenure, following a 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final.
The club announced the news on its official website, stating that Alonso’s departure was a mutual decision.
Alonso, a Real Madrid legend, had been appointed as the head coach in June 2025, replacing Carlo Ancelotti, who left for the Brazilian national team.
During his time at the helm, Alonso’s team showed promise, but ultimately failed to deliver the desired results, including a disappointing Champions League campaign and losses to Barcelona in key competitions.
Alvaro Arbeloa, the former Real Madrid defender and Castilla coach, has been appointed as Alonso’s successor.
Arbeloa is expected to bring a new dynamic to the team, with a focus on man management and stability.
Alonso’s departure comes as no surprise, given the high expectations and pressure surrounding the top job at Real Madrid.
His achievements at Bayer Leverkusen, where he won the Bundesliga and German Cup, had raised hopes for a successful stint at the Santiago Bernabeu.