Xabi Alonso is no longer the head coach of Real Madrid, the club confirmed on its official website. The Spanish coach’s dismissal came just one day after the 3–2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final.
Real Madrid also announced that Álvaro Arbeloa will take over as the new first-team head coach. Arbeloa had previously been in charge of the club’s reserve side.
A few hours after the official statement, Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappé shared a farewell message for Alonso on Instagram.
“It was short, but it was a pleasure to play for you and learn from you. Thank you for trusting me from day one. I will remember you as a coach with clear ideas and great football knowledge. I wish you the best of luck in the next chapter,” the French forward wrote.
Xabi Alonso took charge of Real Madrid in May 2025, succeeding Carlo Ancelotti, who left the club to become head coach of the Brazil national team.
