The Spanish coach is deeply disappointed after failing at one of Europe’s most successful clubs.
After just seven and a half months at Real Madrid, Xabi Alonso has grown frustrated with consecutive defeats against Europe’s top clubs and ongoing clashes with senior players. His regret and disappointment were clear in his words.
Alonso had previously enjoyed great success in German football as the coach of Bayer Leverkusen, leading the team to a Bundesliga title while remaining unbeaten—a remarkable achievement for his first managerial role. However, he was unable to replicate that success at the club where he had once shone as a player. By mutual agreement, he has now stepped down.
Last Wednesday, Real Madrid lost 3-2 to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final. The following day, the club confirmed Alonso’s departure in an official statement.
On Tuesday, the World Cup–winning former Spanish midfielder shared his feelings on Instagram.
“My career at this stage has come to an end. Things did not turn out as we had hoped. Coaching Real Madrid was an honor and a responsibility,” he wrote.
“I am grateful to the club, the players, and above all, the fans. I leave with respect, gratitude, and pride, knowing I gave my best.”
Alonso’s tenure at Europe’s most successful club was marred by internal conflicts, including disagreements with vice-captain Federico Valverde and winger Vinicius Junior, among other senior players.
He also experienced the bitter taste of heavy defeats against PSG in the Club World Cup, Atlético Madrid in La Liga, and Liverpool and Manchester City in the Champions League.
At the start of La Liga, Alonso’s Real Madrid had been five points ahead of Barcelona, but a series of poor performances now leave the team four points behind their archrivals.
After the Super Cup loss, Real Madrid will return to action next Wednesday in the Copa del Rey, facing second-division side Albacete.
