Real Madrid announced on Monday, January 12, 2026, the termination of Xabi Alonso's contract by mutual consent, a surprising decision that came just one day after the team's 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Club statement: "A legend forever"
The official statement from the Royal Club read: "Xabi Alonso will always be loved and admired by all Real Madrid fans as a club legend who has embodied its values throughout the ages. Real Madrid will always be his home." The club expressed its gratitude to Alonso for his "dedication and efforts" during his short time in the position, despite the unsatisfactory results.
Reasons for dismissal: A string of disappointing results and internal disagreements
Alonso (44 years old), who played for Real Madrid for many years, took over in May 2025, succeeding Carlo Ancelotti, on a three-year contract. His appointment came after an exceptional season with Bayer Leverkusen, where he led them to the 2023-2024 Bundesliga title, the German Cup, and a Europa League final.
However, Alonso's time at Real Madrid was less successful. The team suffered a series of disappointing defeats across various competitions, most notably:
The loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup quarter-finals.
Repeated losses in La Liga, including against Atlético Madrid.
An early exit from the Champions League.
Spanish media reports (Marca, AS) indicated sharp internal disagreements between Alonso and several senior players, such as Federico Valverde and Vinicius Junior, regarding playing style, lineup, and management.
Álvaro Arbeloa appointed interim first-team coach
The club announced that Álvaro Arbeloa, coach of the reserve team (Castilla) and former Real Madrid defender, would take over as interim first-team coach while a permanent replacement is announced in the coming days. Arbeloa is considered a transitional option to ensure continuity, while names like Zidane, Ancelotti (a possible return), and Alonso himself (a possible future return) are circulating as candidates for the permanent position.
Reactions: Shock among fans and expectations of a new coach
The news caused widespread shock among Real Madrid fans, who had pinned their hopes on Alonso as the "new generation" to lead the team into a new era. However, many expressed understanding for the decision given the poor results, while also calling for the appointment of a coach who can restore balance and discipline.
In conclusion, terminating Alonso's contract after less than eight months represents a sudden end to an experiment that was seen as the "future of the club." Real Madrid enters a new transitional phase, hoping to regain stability and compete for titles in the second half of the season.
