Real Madrid have moved swiftly to reset their season, confirming Xabi Alonso’s departure as head coach less than 24 hours after their Spanish Super Cup defeat to Barcelona.
The club announced on Monday that the separation was reached by mutual consent, with former defender Álvaro Arbeloa promoted from Castilla to take charge of the first team.
Alonso’s exit brings a sudden end to a tenure that promised much but ultimately fell short of Madrid’s relentless expectations. Appointed last summer on a three-year deal following an impressive spell at Bayer Leverkusen, the 44-year-old began brightly, guiding Los Blancos to 10 wins from their opening 11 La Liga matches.
However, a difficult end to 2025, marked by losses to Liverpool, Manchester City and Celta Vigo, saw momentum fade and scrutiny intensify.
Reports of friction within the dressing room added to the pressure, with Vinícius Júnior publicly voicing frustration over substitutions and murmurs of dissatisfaction with Alonso’s tactical approach. Sunday’s 3-2 Super Cup loss to Barcelona in Jeddah proved decisive.
Arbeloa, a respected figure at the club and a product of Madrid’s values, now takes the reins at a critical moment.
The 42-year-old will lead the team immediately, starting with a Copa del Rey clash against Albacete, as Madrid look to stabilise their season and reignite their title push.