Real Madrid fires Xabi Alonso; Arbeloa takes over in quick managerial reshuffle
Real Madrid announces the dismissal of head coach Xabi Alonso after the Spanish Super Cup defeat to Barcelona in Saudi Arabia. The club quickly confirms Alvaro Arbeloa as his successor, promoting from within the academy to lead the first team. Arbeloa’s appointment follows a historic youth development run at Real Madrid, while Alonso’s tenure ends after a single season. The move comes in the wake of Carlo Ancelotti’s departure and signals Madrid’s confidence in its internal coaching pipeline. The statement emphasizes gratitude toward Alonso and optimism for Arbeloa’s impact.