Real Madrid sack Xabi Alonso following El Classico defeat

The club confirmed the decision in an official statement released on Monday night, shortly after the loss to Barcelona. Alonso had only been appointed in May 2025 as the successor to Carlo Ancelotti.

“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 statement read.

“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. Real Madrid will always be his home.

“Our club thanks Xabi Alonso and his entire coaching staff for their work and dedication during this time, and wishes them the best of luck in this new chapter of their lives.”

Alonso arrived in Madrid with a strong reputation after guiding Bayer Leverkusen to their first-ever Bundesliga title with an unbeaten league campaign. However, his time at the Bernabéu proved far more challenging. Despite an encouraging start, he struggled to consistently integrate high-profile attackers such as Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham into a balanced system, leading to uneven performances. The defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final ultimately proved decisive, prompting both parties to bring the partnership to an early conclusion.

Following the announcement, Mbappé paid tribute to Alonso on social media. “It’s been short, but it was a pleasure to play for you and learn from you,” the France international wrote on Instagram. “Thank you for giving me confidence from day one. I will remember you as a manager with clear ideas and deep football knowledge. Best of luck in your next chapter.”

Real Madrid have moved quickly to appoint a successor, naming Álvaro Arbeloa as the new head coach. The former Madrid defender has spent the past five years working within the club’s youth academy and was appointed Castilla coach last season. Arbeloa is set to take charge of his first match against Albacete in the Copa del Rey on 15 January.