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Xabi Alonso Exits Real Madrid After Super Cup Loss

1/12/2026

24 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Real Madrid announced the mutual departure of head coach Xabi Alonso.
The move followed a 3-2 loss to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup after a tenure of less than eight months.
Alonso began with 13 wins in 14 games but faced pressure from poor results, tensions with players including Vinícius Júnior, and Real Madrid trailing Barcelona by four points.
Álvaro Arbeloa was appointed as his immediate successor.

History

Historical Context

Carlo Ancelotti's appointment as Real Madrid manager in 2013 marked a return to high expectations, culminating in a UEFA Champions League title in 2014. His impressive 78% win rate reflects the intense pressure on coaches, a trend evident since Vicente del Bosque's successful tenure from 1999 to 2003. The club's frequent coaching changes highlight the ongoing challenges faced in elite football, particularly against rivals like Barcelona.

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Story summary

Real Madrid announced the mutual departure of head coach Xabi Alonso.
The move followed a 3-2 loss to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup after a tenure of less than eight months.
Alonso began with 13 wins in 14 games but faced pressure from poor results, tensions with players including Vinícius Júnior, and Real Madrid trailing Barcelona by four points.
Álvaro Arbeloa was appointed as his immediate successor.

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