Real Madrid’s latest managerial chapter has closed abruptly, with Xabi Alonso leaving the club after just eight months in charge. The decision, described as mutual, was confirmed shortly after Sunday’s Spanish Super Cup defeat to Barcelona.
Within hours, the club unveiled Álvaro Arbeloa as Alonso’s successor. The former defender steps up from Real Madrid’s B team to mark his first taste of senior management.
Alonso arrived last summer carrying enormous expectation, having delivered a historic Bundesliga title with Bayer Leverkusen – winning the league unbeaten. However, despite flashes of promise, Madrid struggled for consistency both domestically and in Europe.
Results began to fuel unrest, and tension around the Bernabéu grew noticeably. Defeats against Atlético Madrid, Liverpool, and Manchester City sharpened scrutiny, while La Liga leaders Barcelona moved four points clear.
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From tactical vision to dressing-room friction
Alonso oversaw 24 wins from 34 matches, yet Madrid’s performances often divided opinion. A home loss to Celta Vigo last month proved pivotal, thereby triggering urgent talks among club executives.
Real Madrid wished the 44-year-old well in their farewell message. “Xabi Alonso will always have the affection and admiration of all Madrid fans,” the club said.
Arbeloa now inherits the task of steadying the ship amid a demanding schedule. The 42-year-old takes charge immediately, starting with Wednesday’s Copa del Rey trip to Albacete.
Despite limited senior experience, Arbeloa brings deep institutional knowledge and a decorated playing career. His calm authority will be tested quickly as Madrid seek stability and momentum.
Tags: Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid, #HalaMadrid, Álvaro Arbeloa, Santiago Bernabéu.
