Real Madrid have officially turned the page, ushering in a bold new era by naming Xabi Alonso as their new head coach. The former midfield maestro, known for his elegance on the pitch and tactical intelligence, has signed a contract that runs until June 2028. He will be formally unveiled tomorrow in Madrid.
Alonso, 43, steps into the shoes of Carlo Ancelotti — the legendary manager who won multiple La Liga and Champions League titles during his time at the Santiago Bernabéu. Ancelotti now heads to Brazil to manage the national team, leaving behind a club hungry for evolution.
From Leverkusen Glory to the Bernabéu Hot Seat
Xabi Alonso’s journey to one of the most high-profile jobs in world football is nothing short of remarkable. After hanging up his boots in 2017, Alonso began his coaching career at Real Sociedad B before making a seismic impact at Bayer Leverkusen in 2022.
When Alonso took over in Germany, Leverkusen were flirting with relegation. Fast forward two years, and he led them to their first-ever Bundesliga title and a historic domestic double in an unbeaten 2023-24 season. Their only loss came in the Europa League final against Atalanta, ending a record-breaking 462-day unbeaten domestic run.
Although Leverkusen finished second behind Bayern Munich in the 2024-25 Bundesliga campaign and were knocked out of the Champions League by Bayern, Alonso’s managerial stock soared. His tactical acumen, composed leadership, and ability to develop talent made him a hot commodity — with both Liverpool and Bayern Munich eyeing him as their next head coach at various points.
A Familiar Face with Unfinished Business
For Madridistas, Alonso’s return is a homecoming. He played 236 matches for Real Madrid between 2009 and 2014, winning La Liga, the Champions League, and two Copa del Rey titles. His decorated playing career also includes triumphs with Liverpool, Bayern Munich, and the Spanish national team — including a World Cup in 2010 and two European Championships.
Now, he’s back — but this time, the responsibility is far greater.
A Tough Act to Follow — and Immediate Tests Ahead
Alonso replaces one of the most successful coaches in Real Madrid history. Ancelotti’s second stint saw him secure three Champions Leagues, two La Liga titles, and two Copa del Rey trophies. Yet, the 2024-25 season exposed vulnerabilities — including a crushing Champions League quarter-final exit to Arsenal (5-1 on aggregate) and multiple defeats to arch-rivals Barcelona, who finished the season as La Liga champions.
With Real Madrid finishing second and failing to win a major trophy, change was inevitable.
Alonso’s first real test comes almost immediately, as he will lead the team into the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States next month. Madrid are drawn into Group H alongside Al Hilal, Red Bull Salzburg, and Pachuca. For a manager with no previous experience at this level, the stakes are already high.
Transfer Signals and a Shift in Philosophy
What’s already clear is that Alonso’s appointment signals a shift in Madrid’s approach. The club is becoming more aggressive in the transfer market. Dean Huijsen has already joined from Bournemouth, Trent Alexander-Arnold’s arrival from Liverpool is imminent, and Álvaro Carreras could follow from Benfica.
These signings suggest not only financial backing but trust in Alonso’s long-term vision — a trust that wasn’t always so apparent during Ancelotti’s tenure.
The Road Ahead
Real Madrid is not a club that waits for results. Alonso inherits a squad filled with superstars but also lingering injury issues and tactical challenges. The expectations are clear: silverware, attractive football, and reclaiming dominance in Europe and Spain.
Still, there’s an undeniable excitement in the Spanish capital. The feeling is not just about nostalgia — it’s about renewal. Alonso may be a rookie in elite management, but with his pedigree, calm demeanor, and rapid rise, few doubt he’s ready.
From the Bernabéu to the Club World Cup and beyond, all eyes will be on Xabi Alonso as he begins what could be a defining chapter in Real Madrid’s storied history.
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