XABI ALONSO LEAVES REAL MADRID WITH IMMEDIATE EFFECT

By Akpo Esco

Real Madrid has announced the departure of Xabi Alonso as their head coach, effective immediately, following a mutual agreement between the club and the coach.

Alonso's tenure was marked by a mix of performances, including a recent loss to Barcelona in the Supercopa de España final.

The club expressed their gratitude and admiration for Alonso, citing his legendary status and the values he represented as a player and coach. 

"Xabi Alonso will always carry the affection and admiration of all Madridistas, Real Madrid will always be his home," the statement read.

Alonso, 43, took the helm in June 2025, replacing Carlo Ancelotti, and had a strong start, winning the La Liga Manager of the Month award for August 2025. 

Álvaro Arbeloa has been appointed as the new head coach, bringing experience from Real Madrid's youth academy.