Real Madrid has confirmed the appointment of Xabi Alonso as their new head coach, taking over from Carlo Ancelotti. The former midfielder will start his tenure on June 1, 2025, and will be tasked with leading the team during the upcoming Club World Cup. Alonso, 43, who previously managed Bayer Leverkusen, is considered one of the club’s legendary figures, having played 236 matches for Madrid between 2009 and 2014, securing six major trophies.
The appointment comes after Ancelotti’s decision to join the Brazilian national team. Alonso’s managerial career has been impressive, especially after guiding Leverkusen to a double win in the 2023-2024 season. His previous contract with Leverkusen allowed him to leave for any of his former clubs, including Real Madrid, Liverpool, or Bayern Munich, should they come calling.
Alonso’s primary challenge will be to restore balance to a Madrid side that has seen mixed results in the recent season. Although the team won two trophies under Ancelotti, they were eliminated in the Champions League quarter-finals and failed to secure any major domestic titles.
The new manager will aim to rebuild a more cohesive and balanced squad, without sacrificing the attacking strength of players like Kylian Mbappe, who had a standout season, scoring 31 goals. Alonso brings tactical acumen and organisational skills that could be key in reviving Madrid’s competitive edge.
The Spaniard’s experience includes winning the World Cup and two European Championships with Spain, and he has managed at various levels, including youth teams at Real Madrid and Real Sociedad. His leadership at Bayer Leverkusen has earned him recognition as one of Europe’s top managerial talents.
With the addition of new players such as Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth, and potentially Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool, Alonso will have the opportunity to shape the squad to his vision. His first challenge as manager will be the Club World Cup, where Madrid faces Al-Hilal on June 18 in Miami. This tournament will provide the first real test of Alonso’s capabilities as the new head of the most successful club in football history.
