Real Madrid Part Ways With Xabi Alonso After Super Cup Defeat: Arbeloa Takes Helm
Real Madrid has announced the departure of Xabi Alonso as head coach by mutual agreement, less than a year after his high-profile return to the Santiago Bernabéu. The decision came on January 12, 2026, in the wake of a dramatic 3-2 defeat to arch-rivals Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final , a loss that crystallised a season filled with fluctuating fortunes and mounting pressure.
Alonso, 44, took over the managerial reins in May 2025, signing a three-year contract after an impressive stint at Bayer Leverkusen, where he led the German side to historic success, including a Bundesliga title. His appointment was seen as a bold move by Real Madrid, a club known for its trophy-hungry culture and generated optimism among fans eager to see a former club legend succeed at the highest level.
However, despite flashes of brilliance, Alonso’s tenure proved turbulent. Early in the season, Real Madrid displayed strong form, including a notable El Clásico victory over Barcelona and a comfortable lead in the La Liga standings. But inconsistency soon set in, with key defeats in the Champions League and domestic competitions. Real slipped from the top of La Liga to second place, four points adrift of Barcelona, and suffered damaging losses against elite sides such as Liverpool and Manchester City.
Alonso, 44, took over the managerial reins in May 2025, signing a three-year contract after an impressive stint at Bayer Leverkusen, where he led the German side to historic success, including a Bundesliga title. His appointment was seen as a bold move by Real Madrid, a club known for its trophy-hungry culture and generated optimism among fans eager to see a former club legend succeed at the highest level.
However, despite flashes of brilliance, Alonso’s tenure proved turbulent. Early in the season, Real Madrid displayed strong form, including a notable El Clásico victory over Barcelona and a comfortable lead in the La Liga standings. But inconsistency soon set in, with key defeats in the Champions League and domestic competitions. Real slipped from the top of La Liga to second place, four points adrift of Barcelona, and suffered damaging losses against elite sides such as Liverpool and Manchester City.
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