Real Madrid has turned the page on a challenging season by appointing former midfield maestro Xabi Alonso as their new head coach. The 43-year-old Spanish tactician signed a three-year contract and will officially begin his tenure on June 1, replacing veteran coach Carlo Ancelotti, who is set to take over the Brazilian national team.
Alonso, who previously played for Real Madrid and was admired for his elegance on the pitch, now returns in a leadership role as the club hopes to rebuild and rekindle its dominance in European football.
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During his unveiling at the Valdebebas training ground, Alonso described his appointment as the beginning of a “new era” for the club. Madrid’s most recent campaign was marred by disappointments, including a loss to Barcelona in the finals of both the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Supercopa, as well as a Champions League quarter-final exit to Arsenal.
Despite the setbacks, Alonso expressed optimism and energy about leading a squad he believes is full of potential. Alonso emphasized his emotional connection to the club, calling his return to Madrid a deeply personal milestone.
“It’s a day I will never forget,” he said. He credited the club’s rich legacy and the talent within the squad as key motivations for his comeback, promising to instill a style of play marked by passion, ambition, and fan engagement.
The former Bayer Leverkusen boss arrives at the Santiago Bernabéu with a rising reputation. Under his guidance, Leverkusen achieved an impressive league and cup double in the 2023-24 season, showcasing his tactical acumen and man-management skills.
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His success in Germany has fueled expectations that he can deliver silverware and restore Real Madrid to the top of both domestic and European football. Alonso also paid homage to his predecessor, Carlo Ancelotti, whom he regards as a mentor and a major influence on his coaching career.
Having played under Ancelotti at both Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, Alonso acknowledged the Italian’s impact and expressed his desire to build on the foundations laid during Ancelotti’s tenure, which included multiple Champions League and La Liga titles.
