Real Madrid has officially appointed Xabi Alonso as their new head coach on a three-year contract, marking a significant return for the club legend. The 43-year-old Spaniard will take over from Carlo Ancelotti on June 1, 2025, and is set to lead the team in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.
A Triumphant Return to the Bernabéu
Alonso’s appointment follows a highly successful tenure at Bayer Leverkusen, where he transformed the club into a formidable force in German football. Under his leadership, Leverkusen clinched their first-ever Bundesliga title in the 2023–24 season, remaining unbeaten throughout the campaign. They also secured the DFB-Pokal and the DFL-Supercup, completing a historic domestic treble. In the 2024–25 season, Leverkusen finished second in the league behind Bayern Munich.
Alonso’s managerial prowess has been widely recognized, with many considering him one of the most promising young coaches in world football. His tactical acumen and ability to inspire teams have drawn comparisons to top managers like Pep Guardiola and José Mourinho, both of whom he played under during his illustrious playing career.
From Midfield Maestro to Managerial Marvel
As a player, Alonso enjoyed a decorated career, featuring prominently for clubs such as Real Sociedad, Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich. During his time at Real Madrid (2009–2014), he was instrumental in the team’s successes, including winning La Liga, two Copa del Rey titles, and the coveted UEFA Champions League in 2014.
Transitioning into management, Alonso began with Real Madrid’s youth teams before taking charge of Real Sociedad B in 2019. His managerial journey took a significant leap when he assumed the role at Bayer Leverkusen in 2022, leading the team to unprecedented heights in a short span.
Strategic Appointments and Squad Reinforcements
Alonso’s move to Real Madrid includes bringing along key members of his coaching staff from Leverkusen, ensuring continuity in his tactical approach. Assistant coach Sebastian Parrilla, fitness coach Alberto Encinas, and athletic coach Ismael Camenforte-Lopez are expected to join him at the Bernabéu.
In preparation for the new era under Alonso, Real Madrid has already initiated squad enhancements. The club has secured the signing of Spanish defender Dean Huijsen and is reportedly pursuing Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose contract is nearing its end.
Looking Ahead: Club World Cup and Beyond
Alonso’s first major test as Real Madrid’s head coach will be the FIFA Club World Cup, with the team’s opening match against Al-Hilal scheduled for June 18 in Miami. Despite limited preparation time due to international fixtures, expectations are high for Alonso to make an immediate impact.
Real Madrid President Florentino Pérez expressed confidence in Alonso’s appointment, describing him as “one of the greatest legends of Real Madrid and world football” and “one of the best coaches in the world.”
As Real Madrid embarks on this new chapter, fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching how Alonso’s leadership shapes the team’s future, both domestically and in European competitions.
