Real Madrid have taken the dramatic decision to part ways with manager Xabi Alonso, dismissing the club legend less than a day after a painful defeat to arch-rivals Barcelona in the Spanish Supercup final.
The Final Straw: A Devastating El Clasico Defeat
The club confirmed the Spaniard's exit on Sunday evening, stating it was 'by mutual agreement'. However, the timing leaves little doubt that the 2-1 loss to Barcelona in Saudi Arabia was the catalyst for the abrupt termination. Alonso, a former midfielder who made 236 appearances for Los Blancos as a player, had been under mounting pressure for several weeks.
Reports of a growing disconnect between the 42-year-old coach and his star-studded squad had been circulating in Spanish media, creating a tense atmosphere at the Bernabéu. The failure to secure the season's first piece of silverware against their greatest foes proved to be the final straw for the Madrid hierarchy.
A Club Legend Departs 'By Mutual Agreement'
In an official statement, Real Madrid sought to frame the departure with respect, acknowledging Alonso's deep history with the club. 'Real Madrid CF announces that, by mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to end his time as first-team coach,' the statement read.
It continued with words of praise for the departing manager: 'Xabi Alonso will always have the affection and admiration of all Madrid fans because he is a Real Madrid legend and has always represented the values of our club. Real Madrid will always be his home.' The club also thanked Alonso and his technical team for their 'work and dedication' and wished them luck in the future.
What Comes Next for Real Madrid?
The search for a successor will now begin immediately, with the club's season at a critical juncture. They remain in contention for La Liga and the UEFA Champions League, but this sudden change in leadership throws their campaign into uncertainty. The decision highlights the relentless demand for success at the Santiago Bernabéu, where even club icons are not spared when results turn sour.
For Xabi Alonso, a promising coaching career faces its first major setback. His tenure, which began with hope of translating his legendary midfield intelligence to the dugout, ends abruptly after just over a season in charge. The football world will now watch closely to see where the former Liverpool and Bayern Munich star goes next, and more importantly, who Real Madrid appoint to steady the ship.
