Xabi Alonso Named New Real Madrid Coach

Real Madrid have confirmed that club legend Xabi Alonso will take over as head coach starting June 1, 2025, replacing Carlo Ancelotti in the role.

The former Spanish international has signed a three-year contract with Real Madrid that runs until 2028. The 43-year-old replaces Ancelotti, who is set to depart after a disappointing season that saw Los Blancos fall short in La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the UEFA Champions League.

Xabi Alonso’s appointment marks a homecoming for the former midfielder, who made 236 appearances for Real Madrid between 2009 and 2014, winning La Liga, two Copa del Rey titles, and the UEFA Champions League. His return comes after a highly successful managerial stint at Bayer Leverkusen, where he led the German club to their first-ever Bundesliga title and a domestic double in the 2023–24 season. Under his guidance, Leverkusen also became the first team in Bundesliga history to complete an unbeaten league campaign, setting a European record with a 51-game unbeaten run across all competitions.

The official announcement of Xabi Alonso’s move to Real Madrid is expected on May 25, 2025, following the conclusion of the Bundesliga season. His first task will be leading Real Madrid into the FIFA Club World Cup this summer, with the tournament scheduled to begin on June 14.

Carlo Ancelotti, meanwhile, is anticipated to take over as head coach of the Brazil national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Xabi Alonso’s return to the Santiago Bernabéu ushers in a new era for Real Madrid, as the club looks to rebuild and reclaim its position at the pinnacle of European football.