Real Madrid have announced the departure of head coach Xabi Alonso after only seven months in charge, with former Castilla boss Alvaro Arbeloa appointed as his successor.
The decision comes less than 24 hours after Madrid’s 3–2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final in Saudi Arabia, a result that added further pressure on Alonso following an inconsistent first half of the season.
Alonso leaves with Madrid sitting second in the La Liga standings, four points behind leaders Barcelona after 19 matches. The club also find themselves seventh on the Champions League table, having recorded four wins and two defeats in the group phase. A disappointing 2–0 home loss to Celta Vigo on 7 December, which was met with boos from supporters, compounded the pressure on the former midfielder.
Despite these setbacks, Alonso’s overall record shows 24 victories from 34 matches. He arrived at the Santiago Bernabeu in May 2025 following a remarkable spell at Bayer Leverkusen, where he led the German side to a historic league and cup double in 2024. His success sparked interest from several major clubs, including Liverpool, before he eventually chose Madrid as his next step.
Real Madrid confirmed his exit on Monday, saying the two parties had reached a mutual agreement. The club emphasised that Alonso remains a respected figure, having previously enjoyed a celebrated playing career in the famous white shirt.
Arbeloa Takes the Reins
Arbeloa, who has been coaching Real Madrid Castilla since June 2025, now steps up to lead the first team. The 42 year old brings significant experience from within the club’s structures, having spent six years working in the academy. His most notable achievement came in the 2022–23 season, when he guided the Juvenil A side to an impressive treble of league, Copa del Rey and Champions Cup titles. He also secured another league trophy with the youth team the following season.
As a player, Arbeloa made 238 appearances for Real Madrid between 2009 and 2016, a spell during which the club won two Champions League titles, a La Liga title, two Copa del Rey trophies, and several other major honours. He was also part of Spain’s golden generation that lifted the 2010 World Cup and the European Championships in 2008 and 2012.
Arbeloa also shares a long history with Alonso, having played alongside him at both Real Madrid and Liverpool.
What Comes Next
Arbeloa’s first task will be navigating the Copa del Rey round of 16, where Real Madrid face Albacete on Wednesday. He will then make his La Liga debut as head coach on Saturday when Los Blancos host Levante at the Santiago Bernabeu.
His appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for Madrid as they attempt to close the gap at the top of the league and strengthen their challenge for silverware across all competitions.
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