Xabi Alonso has officially parted ways with Real Madrid as head coach, just seven months into his tenure marked by initial promise. The club announced his departure through a mutual agreement, citing his inability to secure any silverware despite an impressive 70% win rate in La Liga and other competitions. Alonso’s exit was further cemented following a disappointing 3-2 loss to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final, a match in which his tactical decisions and substitutions faced scrutiny and appeared to seal his fate.
In a swift move to fill the vacancy, Real Madrid has appointed Alvaro Arbeloa as the new head coach. Arbeloa, 42, is not just a former teammate of Alonso at both Real Madrid and Liverpool but also brings a wealth of experience from his coaching role with Real Madrid’s B team, Castilla, which he has led since June 2025. Under his guidance, Castilla has flourished, showcasing his ability to develop young talent. Notably, he achieved a remarkable treble with the Juvenil A side during the 2022-23 season, winning the league, the Copa del Rey, and the UEFA Youth League. Arbeloa’s deep connection to the club and proven track record with the youth teams make him a compelling choice to lead Real Madrid back to its winning ways.
