Real Madrid have confirmed the appointment of Xabi Alonso as the club’s new manager on a three-year deal, succeeding Carlo Ancelotti following the conclusion of the 2024/25 season.
The 43-year-old Spaniard will be officially unveiled at a press conference in Madrid on Monday, marking a homecoming for the former midfield maestro who won numerous trophies with Los Blancos during his playing days from 2009 to 2014.
Alonso arrives in the Spanish capital after a hugely successful stint at Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen, where he transformed the club into title contenders and led them to their first-ever league title earlier this season. His decision to depart Leverkusen was made public earlier this month, sparking widespread speculation about his next move — now confirmed as a return to Real Madrid.
“Returning to Real Madrid is a great honour and a great responsibility,” Alonso said in a brief statement. “This club shaped me as a player, and I am proud to now take on the challenge of leading it as a manager.”
Alonso replaces Carlo Ancelotti, who ends his second spell with the club after leading Madrid to multiple domestic and European honours. The Italian tactician is set to take over the Brazil national team.
Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez expressed his confidence in Alonso, citing his “deep understanding of the club’s values” and “exceptional tactical acumen” as key reasons for the appointment.
Alonso’s coaching stock has risen rapidly since beginning his managerial career with Real Sociedad’s B team before making the leap to Leverkusen in 2022. Known for his calm leadership and modern footballing philosophy, he now faces the challenge of maintaining Real Madrid’s elite standards both in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League.
His appointment is expected to usher in a new era at the Bernabéu, as Madrid look to build on a new generation of talent led by Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Jr., and Aurélien Tchouaméni.
Alonso will begin pre-season preparations in July, with fans and pundits alike eager to see how the former midfield general transitions into one of the most high-pressure managerial roles in world football.
