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Real Madrid stunned the football world on January 12, 2026. The club announced the immediate departure of head coach Xabi Alonso. Minutes later, officials named Álvaro Arbeloa as his replacement.
Alonso lasted just over seven months in the role. He arrived in June 2025 amid huge excitement after guiding Bayer Leverkusen to historic success. The former midfielder replaced Carlo Ancelotti, who left for the Brazil national team job.
Results under Alonso proved mixed. Real Madrid won several matches convincingly but struggled for consistency. The final blow came in the Spanish Super Cup final. Barcelona defeated them 3-2 on Sunday, exposing defensive frailties and tactical issues.
The club described Alonso’s exit as mutual agreement. Sources close to the team reveal deep disappointment among players. Many considered the decision abrupt and unexpected.
Dressing room reactions showed shock. Senior players valued Alonso’s modern approach and clear vision. Younger stars thrived under his possession-based style. Several expressed surprise through private channels.
Arbeloa steps into the hottest seat in football immediately. The 42-year-old former defender currently coaches Real Madrid Castilla, the B team. He knows the club intimately from his playing career.
