Real Madrid have officially appointed Xabi Alonso as their new first-team manager, confirming weeks of speculation surrounding the former midfielder’s return to the Santiago Bernabéu.
The announcement was made on Friday, with the club stating that Alonso will take charge at the end of the 2024/25 season, replacing Carlo Ancelotti, who is set to leave his role following the conclusion of his current contract.
Alonso, 43, returns to Madrid where he enjoyed a highly successful playing spell between 2009 and 2014, winning La Liga, the Champions League, and two Copa del Rey titles. He now assumes the managerial reins after an impressive stint at Bayer Leverkusen, where he guided the German side to their first-ever Bundesliga title and a Europa League final.
In a statement, Real Madrid described Alonso as “a figure who embodies the values of the club both on and off the pitch,” praising his tactical intelligence, leadership, and deep understanding of the game.
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Alonso expressed his excitement at rejoining the club in a new capacity. “It is a great honour to return to Real Madrid as head coach,” he said. “This club shaped my career, and I am fully committed to continuing its legacy of excellence.”
The appointment has been met with enthusiasm from fans and pundits alike, many of whom believe Alonso’s style and philosophy align well with Madrid’s rich footballing heritage.
He is expected to begin pre-season preparations in July, as the club embarks on a new era under his leadership.
Xabi Alonso will be the Real Madrid coach for the next three seasons, from June 1, 2025 until June 30, 2028.
