Real Madrid Part Ways with Xabi Alonso After Super Cup Defeat to Barcelona

Real Madrid have announced the termination of their working relationship with manager Xabi Alonso, describing the decision as one reached “by mutual agreement.”

The Spanish giants confirmed Alonso’s departure in a statement released on Monday, less than 24 hours after the club’s 3–2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final played in Saudi Arabia on Sunday.

Alonso, 44, was appointed head coach in May 2025 but spent just seven months in charge of the Santiago Bernabéu outfit.

His tenure was reportedly marked by internal tensions, with reports suggesting that some senior players were unhappy with certain tactical and managerial decisions made by the former midfielder. These issues came to the fore in October during the first El Clásico of the season, when Vinícius Júnior was substituted and reacted angrily, storming off the pitch and heading straight to the dugout in protest.

Although the Brazilian winger later apologised for his conduct, reports indicated that the apology was directed at the club’s hierarchy and fans, rather than Alonso himself.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid have confirmed the appointment of Álvaro Arbeloa as Alonso’s replacement. Arbeloa, who had been in charge of Castilla since June 2025, has been promoted to the first team. The former defender has spent his entire coaching career within Real Madrid’s youth system since joining the academy setup in 2020.