Real Madrid have sacked Xabi Alonso as manager, bringing an end to the Spaniard’s brief seven-month tenure at the Santiago Bernabéu. The defending LaLiga giants confirmed the managerial change shortly after their 3-2 Spanish Super Cup defeat to Barcelona — a result widely seen as the final catalyst for the decision. Alonso’s departure was announced on Monday, January 12, 2026, and he has been replaced by club legend Álvaro Arbeloa, who was previously coach of Real Madrid’s Castilla (reserve team).
What Real Madrid Announced
In a brief statement, Real Madrid confirmed that Alonso and the club had “mutually agreed to part ways” — a phrase often used in football to signal dismissal — following the Super Cup setback. Despite early optimism in his tenure, the club leadership decided a fresh approach was needed to maintain title ambitions in LaLiga and push forward in the Champions League.
Why Alonso’s Reign Ended
Alonso’s spell as head coach began on 25 May 2025, when he succeeded Carlo Ancelotti after impressing with Bayer Leverkusen. Initial results were promising, including a LaLiga Manager of the Month award early in the season and a Clasico victory over Barcelona. However, a downturn in performances — highlighted by drops in form, fluctuating results in key domestic and European games, and the Super Cup loss — contributed to mounting pressure on the Spaniard’s position.
Several sports analysts and managers outside the club criticised the decision as premature, arguing Alonso’s Madrid were still competitive in multiple competitions — with LaLiga, the Champions League, and the Copa del Rey still in play — and deserved more time to build stability.
Álvaro Arbeloa: The New Man in Charge
Real Madrid have named Álvaro Arbeloa as Alonso’s replacement. Arbeloa, 42, is a revered former Real Madrid defender who played 238 matches for the club and won multiple major trophies as a player. After his playing days, he transitioned into coaching, rising through the club’s youth ranks and most recently leading Real Madrid Castilla.
In his first press appearance as head coach, Arbeloa vowed to fight for success on all fronts, emphasising his commitment to the club’s values and ambitions despite the limited preparation time before upcoming competitive fixtures.
Reaction from Football Circles
The news of Alonso’s sacking has sparked diverse reactions within the football community:
- Former Real Madrid players and pundits expressed surprise at the timing, noting that Alonso’s tenure wasn’t long enough to fully shape his tactical ideology and long-term project at one of the world’s most demanding clubs.
- LaLiga rivals and managers, such as Real Betis coach Manuel Pellegrini, publicly criticised the decision as hasty, arguing that Alonso was judged too quickly after moments of mixed but serviceable form.
- Players within the squad reportedly maintained respect for Alonso, but rumours circulated about dressing room friction and tactical disagreements — narratives some key players have since publicly denied.
What This Means for Real Madrid’s Season
Alonso’s exit brings a significant shift mid-season. Real Madrid remain second in LaLiga, four points behind Barcelona, and they face the challenge of regaining momentum under Arbeloa’s leadership. His fresh voice is expected to inject renewed energy into the squad, particularly as they push through the rest of the league campaign and into European competition.
Alonso’s Legacy and Future Prospects
Although his stint was short, Alonso’s time at Real Madrid featured tactical experimentation and moments of promise. His departure traces back to performance dips and the club’s high expectations for immediate success — a hallmark of life at elite clubs like Madrid.
Football insiders suggest Alonso’s managerial reputation remains strong, with potential suitors likely to emerge soon across Europe’s top leagues. Some commentators believe this experience, though brief, will serve as a learning chapter in his promising coaching career
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