Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe has publicly thanked Xabi Alonso after the Spanish giants confirmed the manager's shock departure after just eight months in charge.
Mutual Agreement Ends Alonso's Brief Reign
The club announced on Monday that they had parted ways with Alonso by "mutual agreement". The decision came swiftly after Real Madrid's 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final on Sunday, a match where Frenkie de Jong's stoppage-time winner proved to be Alonso's last in the dugout.
Alonso, a legendary former midfielder for the club, was only appointed last summer ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup. He leaves with Madrid sitting second in La Liga, four points behind leaders Barcelona.
Mbappe's Heartfelt Instagram Tribute
Shortly after the announcement, Mbappe took to his Instagram story, which reaches his 129 million followers, to post a poignant message alongside a photo of himself with the now-former boss.
"It's been short but it was a pleasure to play for you and learn from you," the French forward wrote. "Thank you for giving me the confidence since day one. I will remember you as a manager who had clear ideas and knows many things about football. Best of luck for your next chapter."
Arbeloa Steps Up as Immediate Replacement
In a swift transition, Real Madrid confirmed that Alvaro Arbeloa has been appointed as the club's new first-team manager. The former Liverpool and Madrid defender, who has been coaching within the club's youth system, now steps into the top job.
The club's official statement expressed gratitude to Alonso, calling him a "Real Madrid legend" and stating that "Real Madrid will always be his home."
Attention now turns to Arbeloa's first match in charge, which will be a Copa del Rey round of 16 tie against Albacete on Wednesday night. His first La Liga test comes this Saturday against Levante as Madrid look to close the gap at the top of the table.
