Madrid Makes a Fresh Start: Arbeloa to Lead Real Madrid After Alonso Exit
13 January 2026
What happened
Emilio Butragueno, Real Madrid's head of institutional relations, spoke about Xabi Alonso's departure from the dugout and the appointment of Álvaro Arbeloa in his stead.
Madrid announced Alonso's exit after a defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final.
Outlook for the club
Butragueno added that Arbeloa faces a huge challenge: this is home, you know the club and its commitments, and the club is a big family that will help him succeed. He also recalled Alonso as a club legend and a great example of Real Madrid values, noting the departure was a mutual decision and thanking him for his commitment.
Alonso had taken charge last summer, replacing Carlo Ancelotti, who left for Brazil's national team. Despite early optimism, results fluctuated and stability waned, including the Clasico defeat in a final, hastening the end of the experiment.
Punchline 1: It’s not a miracle, it’s a substitution—Madrid swapped coaches faster than a playlist changes after a win.
Punchline 2: Alonso exits with a mic drop; Arbeloa steps in with a fresh whistle and a playlist titled "We Will Score More."
