Spanish football giant Real Madrid has stunned fans worldwide by parting ways with Xabi Alonso, just hours after their dramatic 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the King’s Super Cup final in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The announcement, made on the club’s official X page, has left supporters debating what the future holds for Los Blancos.
In an emotional statement, the club paid tribute to Alonso’s legacy: “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.” They also thanked him and his technical team for their hard work and dedication, wishing them success in their next chapter.
Alonso, 43, had been set to replace Carlo Ancelotti as Real Madrid’s head coach starting June 1, 2025, after Ancelotti accepted the role of leading Brazil’s national team. The Spaniard leaves Bayer Leverkusen, where he achieved a remarkable league and cup double in the 2023-2024 season, keeping the team unbeaten in the Bundesliga.
A former midfield icon at Real Madrid, Alonso played 236 games between 2009 and 2014, winning six trophies and cementing his status as one of the club’s all-time greats. The club’s statement emphasized: “Alonso is one of the biggest legends at Real Madrid and in world football.”
Madrid endured a tough season under Ancelotti, claiming the European Super Cup and Intercontinental Cup but falling short in the Champions League quarter-finals against Arsenal. Meanwhile, Barcelona reclaimed La Liga, the Spanish Super Cup, and Copa del Rey, leaving Real Madrid empty-handed in domestic competition.
Even with superstar Kylian Mbappe in the squad, Ancelotti struggled to find the perfect balance alongside Vinicius Junior. Alonso now faces the challenge of restoring Real Madrid’s defensive discipline while keeping their attack lethal on the European stage.
