Xabi Alonso leaves Real Madrid

Real Madrid has announced the departure of head coach Xabi Alonso following a mutual decision to end his time with the club.

In an official statement issued on Monday, the club said the separation was agreed by both parties, bringing an early end to Alonso’s tenure as coach of the first team.

“Real Madrid C. F. communicates that, by mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to end his time as coach of the first team,” the statement said.

The club paid glowing tribute to the former midfielder, describing him as a permanent part of the institution’s history and identity.

“Xabi Alonso will always have the affection and admiration of all Real Madrid because he is a legend of Real Madrid and has always represented the values of our club. Real Madrid will always be his home,” the statement added.

Alonso was appointed head coach on 25 May 2025, signing a three-year contract and officially taking charge on 1 June 2025.

His appointment marked a significant transition for the club, as he succeeded Carlo Ancelotti, one of the most decorated managers in Real Madrid’s history.

The former Spain international led the team through the 2025–26 season, a campaign closely watched by fans and analysts due to Alonso’s growing reputation as one of Europe’s most promising young coaches.

His arrival was widely seen as a long-term project aimed at blending tactical intelligence with a renewed club identity rooted in discipline, structure, and intelligent ball play.

Despite the original length of his contract, both parties agreed to part ways in January 2026.

The club did not provide details on the specific reasons behind the decision, emphasizing instead the spirit of mutual respect that guided the process.

“Real Madrid thanks Xabi Alonso and all his technical team for their work and dedication throughout this time, and wishes them good luck in this new stage of their lives,” the statement said.

Alonso’s connection to Real Madrid runs deep. As a player, he enjoyed a highly successful spell at the club, winning major domestic and European honours and earning recognition as one of the most intelligent midfielders of his generation.

That legacy played a major role in the warmth of the club’s farewell message.

His departure now opens a new chapter for Real Madrid as the club turns its attention to appointing a successor capable of maintaining competitiveness at the highest level.

For Alonso, the decision closes a brief but notable chapter in his managerial career, with expectations high that he will continue to attract interest from top clubs across Europe.