Real Madrid announced a major managerial shift on January 12, 2026, with club legend Álvaro Arbeloa taking over first-team coaching duties following Xabi Alonso's departure after less than eight months in charge. The decision came hours after Madrid's 3-2 Spanish Super Cup final loss to Barcelona in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Club officials described the separation as mutual, stating: "Xabi Alonso will always carry the affection and admiration of all Madridistas… Real Madrid will always be his home." Alonso leaves with a record of 24 wins in 34 matches across competitions, though recent tensions with players and inconsistent performances reportedly contributed to the change.
Star forward Kylian Mbappé led player tributes on social media, posting: "It's been short but a pleasure to play for you & learn from you." Notably absent from public farewells was Vinícius Júnior, who had reportedly clashed with Alonso over substitution decisions.
Arbeloa, who played alongside Alonso for club and country, inherits a squad currently four points behind Barcelona in La Liga. His first test comes January 14 in the Copa del Rey round of 16 against Albacete. Analysts suggest this abrupt transition could impact Madrid's Champions League campaign as the knockout stages approach next month.
