In a stunning development, Real Madrid have confirmed the departure of manager Xabi Alonso after a brief tenure of just 28 matches. The club announced the split was made by mutual consent on Monday, 12th January 2026.
A Sudden End for a Madrid Legend
The former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder, who was appointed in the summer of 2025 after a successful spell at German champions Bayer Leverkusen, leaves his post with the team sitting second in LaLiga. Real are currently four points behind arch-rivals Barcelona at the midway point of the season.
Despite his short time in charge, Alonso achieved a significant statistical milestone. He recorded the best win percentage of any Real Madrid head coach over the last ten years, a testament to his immediate impact. However, recent results appear to have precipitated the sudden change.
Recent Setbacks and Immediate Succession
The decision follows a painful defeat to league leaders Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final on Sunday, marking the second consecutive year Real have lost that particular showpiece to their fiercest foes. Alonso's side also suffered high-profile losses in the UEFA Champions League this season, falling to both Liverpool and Manchester City.
The club has moved swiftly to appoint a successor, turning to a familiar face. Alvaro Arbeloa, another former Liverpool player, steps up from his role as coach of Real Madrid's B team, a position he has held since June 2025. Arbeloa also brings six years of experience working within the club's famed academy system.
A Fond Farewell from the Bernabéu
In an official statement, the Spanish giants struck a respectful and affectionate tone. "Xabi Alonso will always have the affection and admiration of all Madrid fans because he is a Real Madrid legend and has always represented the values of our club," it read. The statement concluded with the poignant line, "Real Madrid will always be his home."
Alonso's exit marks a dramatic turn in what was a highly anticipated homecoming. The club finished as runners-up in LaLiga last season, and his appointment was seen as a key step in reclaiming domestic and European supremacy. All eyes will now be on Alvaro Arbeloa as he takes on one of the most pressurised jobs in world football.
