Real Madrid have ended Xabi Alonso’s reign as head coach following the club’s dramatic defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The decision came just hours after the loss, bringing Alonso’s brief spell at the Santiago Bernabeu to an abrupt conclusion.
The club announced that the separation was reached by mutual agreement, a move that followed growing speculation about Alonso’s future amid reports of unrest within the dressing room. Sources had suggested that the former midfielder was struggling to maintain full support from the squad as results and performances dipped.
Alonso, who arrived at Real Madrid last summer from Bayer Leverkusen, endured a challenging tenure marked by inconsistency and rising pressure. The Super Cup final defeat, which saw Madrid collapse late against their fiercest rivals, appeared to hasten the club’s decision to act.
In a statement confirming the exit, the club said, “Real Madrid CF announces that, by mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to end his time as first team coach.”
Real Madrid also paid tribute to Alonso’s legacy, stating, “Xabi Alonso will always have the affection and admiration of all Madrid fans because he is a Real Madrid legend and has always represented the values of our club. Real Madrid will always be his home.”
The club went on to acknowledge the work of his backroom staff, adding, “Our club thanks Xabi Alonso and his entire technical team for their work and dedication during this time, and wishes them the best of luck in this new stage of their lives.”
Despite the warm tone of the statement, the timing of the decision has raised questions among fans and pundits alike. With key battles ahead in La Liga and the Champions League, Real Madrid now face the urgent task of restoring stability and momentum following Alonso’s sudden departure.
