Real Madrid fires Xabi Alonso; Arbeloa takes over in quick managerial reshuffle

Alonso's exit after the Spanish Super Cup defeat

Real Madrid announced on Monday that head coach Xabi Alonso has been dismissed hours after losing the Spanish Super Cup final to Barcelona in Saudi Arabia. The decision was described as mutual and part of an agreed separation as the club looks to regain momentum in a challenging period.

The club's statement said that Real Madrid and Xabi Alonso have ended his tenure as first team coach by mutual consent. The club added that Alonso is highly regarded by the club and its supporters and will always be part of Real Madrid's history.

The final, played on Sunday, saw Barcelona beat Madrid 3-2 to lift the trophy, prompting swift leadership changes. Former coach Carlo Ancelotti had left Madrid to take the Brazil job, opening space for new leadership.

Arbeloa's ascent from the Castilla to the first team

Real Madrid immediately confirmed Alvaro Arbeloa as the replacement. Arbeloa has led Real Madrid Castilla since June 2025 and has spent most of his coaching career within the club's youth system since 2020.

In the youth ranks he oversaw the Under 19s win the league in 2020-21, the Under 21s secure success in 2021-22, and the younger groups progress through 2022-25. He also guided the cadet side to a historic treble in 2022-23 (league, cup and Champions League) and added the league title in 2024-25.

As a player, Arbeloa was part of Real Madrid from 2009 to 2016, appearing in 238 official matches and collecting eight trophies, including two Champions Leagues, a FIFA Club World Cup, a UEFA Super Cup, a league title, two Copa del Reys, and a Spanish Super Cup.

He also represented Spain, earning 56 caps and contributing to the 2010 World Cup triumph and the European Championships in 2008 and 2012.

Madrid's statement thanked Alonso and his staff for their efforts and wished them success in their next steps. Arbeloa's appointment signals a blend of first team ambition and a strong emphasis on the club's internal development model.

Note: Alonso's tenure began last summer after Carlo Ancelotti left Madrid for Brazil. Arbeloa, a former first team player, inherits a club that has enjoyed one of its most successful eras and faces a pivotal season.

Punchline 1: In football management the sniper is the clock and Arbeloa just got handed the rifle, hopefully with a clear sight line to trophies.

Punchline 2: Real Madrid confidence level upgraded: from a bench to the first team bench, where the coffee is strong and the goals are stronger.