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<p>After just 7 months</p>
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<img alt="Xabi Alonso leaves Real Madrid: What happens next?" src="https://tmssl.akamaized.net//images/foto/galerie/real-madrid-manager-xabi-alonso-1765405162-184902.jpg" title="Xabi Alonso leaves Real Madrid: What happens next?">
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<p><span>©IMAGO</span></p>
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<p>Real Madrid has officially parted ways with manager Xabi Alonso, as announced by the club. This decision follows Real Madrid's recent loss to rival Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup, where they fell 3-2. Reports indicate that Alonso requested to step down from his role as head coach, leading the club to appoint Álvaro Arbeloa as the caretaker manager.</p>
<p>In a statement, Real Madrid C.F. said, “By mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to conclude his tenure as first-team coach. Xabi Alonso will always be cherished by Madrid fans as a club legend who exemplified our values. Real Madrid will always be his home. We extend our gratitude to Xabi Alonso and his coaching staff for their commitment during this time and wish them success in their future endeavors.”</p>
<p>Amid rising tensions at the club, Alonso faced challenges with star winger Vinicius Junior. After the Super Cup defeat, Kylian Mbappé made headlines by declining the customary guard of honor for their opponents. Fans expressed their frustration with Alonso, publicly demanding his dismissal. On Monday, their wishes were granted as Alonso departed the club by mutual consent.</p>
<h2>Where Did It Go Wrong for Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid?</h2>
<p>Alonso joined Real Madrid from Bayer Leverkusen seven months ago, having previously led Leverkusen to a Bundesliga title and a DFB Pokal victory in 2024. He made Bundesliga history by guiding his team to an undefeated season. However, last season, Leverkusen lost the title to Bayern Munich under Vincent Kompany. Alonso finished his time at Leverkusen with an impressive average of 2.14 points per game—the highest among full-season coaches at the club.</p>
<p>His performance at Real Madrid was even better, averaging 2.24 points per game over 34 matches in all competitions. However, Real Madrid currently trails Barcelona by four points in LaLiga and has struggled in the Champions League, winning only four of six matches. Compounding these issues, the atmosphere in the dressing room deteriorated, leading the club to feel they could no longer continue with the former player and manager.</p>
<p>Looking ahead, Arbeloa will step in as the caretaker manager. Rumors suggest that Carlo Ancelotti might return to the club, given his credentials to manage a talent-laden roster. However, questions linger regarding his ongoing project in Brazil and whether he can make a return. Ultimately, Real Madrid finds itself at a pivotal moment, ending an ambitious chapter sooner than expected. For Alonso, his reputation remains strong, and clubs like Liverpool, facing challenges, will likely keep a close eye on his situation.</p>
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