BREAKING: Xabi Alonso sacked by Real Madrid with immediate effect

Real Madrid confirmed the decision in an official statement published on their website on Monday night: “Real Madrid C. F. wishes to announce that, by mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to bring his time as first team coach to an end.

“Xabi Alonso will always carry the affection and admiration of all Madridistas because he is a Real Madrid legend and has always represented the values of our club. Real Madrid will always be his home. We would like to thank Xabi Alonso and all his coaching staff for their hard work and dedication throughout this time, and wish them the best of luck in this new stage of their lives.”

Alonso leaves the club just seven months after taking charge. In May 2025, Real Madrid announced the appointment of the 44-year-old on a three-year contract as the successor to Carlo Ancelotti, who departed to become head coach of the Brazil national team.

However, Alonso’s spell at the Bernabéu was marked by inconsistency. His first major test came at the FIFA Club World Cup, where Madrid suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals after a four-match winning run. Upon returning to domestic football, Madrid enjoyed a perfect start, winning their first seven matches of the season.

Problems began to surface in September during the derby against Atlético Madrid, when Madrid’s defence struggled badly in a match that saw Atlético score five goals. Although results initially remained positive, performances became increasingly unconvincing. A 2-0 defeat to Celta Vigo intensified speculation over Alonso’s future, with reports suggesting his job was under threat unless results improved.

Madrid went on to lose only once more before the winter break, but they still trailed Barcelona by four points in the league standings. The decisive blow came in the Spanish Super Cup final, where Madrid were beaten 3-2 by their rivals. Shortly after the defeat, both parties agreed to end the collaboration with immediate effect.

To replace Alonso, Real Madrid have turned to Álvaro Arbeloa, who has been in charge of Castilla since June 2025. Arbeloa began his coaching career in 2020 and has spent five years working within the club’s youth system. His first match as head coach of the senior side will be against Albacete on 15 January.