Real Madrid have confirmed the departure of head coach Xabi Alonso after a brief tenure lasting just over seven months. The club announced the exit was made "by mutual agreement" following a disappointing defeat in the Spanish Super Cup final.
Super Cup Defeat Proves Final Straw
The decision comes in the wake of Real Madrid's 4-1 loss to rivals Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final this past Sunday. This result left the club in a precarious position, sitting four points behind the Catalan leaders in the La Liga title race. The defeat appears to have been the catalyst for the swift managerial change.
A Promising Start Fades Away
Alonso, a former midfield icon for Los Blancos, officially took the reins on 1 June 2023, arriving with strong credentials after a triumphant spell at Bayer Leverkusen. There, he secured a domestic double and guided the team to a Europa League final in the 2023-24 season.
His start in Madrid was spectacular, overseeing a run where the team won 13 of his first 14 matches in La Liga and the Champions League. The sole blemish in that period was a heavy derby loss to Atlético Madrid. However, form dramatically dipped after a defeat at Liverpool on 4 November, triggering a run of just two victories in eight games across all competitions.
Club Statement Confirms Exit
Although a brief resurgence of five consecutive wins followed, it was not enough to secure his long-term future. In an official statement, Real Madrid expressed their gratitude and enduring connection to the departing coach.
"Real Madrid C.F. announces that, by mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to end his tenure as first-team coach," the club said. "Xabi Alonso will always have the affection and admiration of all Madrid fans because he is a Real Madrid legend and has always embodied the values of our club. Real Madrid will always be his home."
The statement concluded by thanking Alonso and his staff for their "work and dedication" and wishing them luck in their future endeavours. The search for a successor to lead the club's challenge on multiple fronts is now underway.
