- In May 2025, Real Madrid appointed Xabi Alonso as their new head coach, marking a significant return for the former midfield maestro who previously donned the club's jersey between 2009 and 2014. Alonso's managerial journey had seen him achieve remarkable success with Bayer Leverkusen, where he led the team to an unprecedented unbeaten domestic double in 2024, securing both the Bundesliga title and the DFB-Pokal.
Alonso's appointment came in the wake of Carlo Ancelotti's departure, following a season where Real Madrid fell short in major competitions, including a quarter-final exit in the UEFA Champions League and finishing as runners-up in both La Liga and the Copa del Rey. The club, seeking a fresh direction, turned to Alonso, who signed a three-year contract set to commence on June 1, 2025.
Real Madrid's official statement highlighted Alonso's deep-rooted connection with the club, noting his 236 appearances and six titles during his playing tenure, including the coveted "La Décima" Champions League triumph in 2014. His coaching career began within Real Madrid's youth academy, and his subsequent achievements with Bayer Leverkusen solidified his reputation as one of the most promising managers in European football.
Alonso's first major challenge as head coach will be leading Real Madrid in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, scheduled to take place in the United States from June 15 to July 13. The tournament will serve as an early test of his tactical acumen and leadership as he aims to instill a new identity and style of play within the team.
Expressing his vision for the club, Alonso stated his ambition to make Real Madrid an "unstoppable force," emphasizing the importance of players flourishing in their preferred roles. His return to the Santiago Bernabéu is seen as the beginning of a new era, with hopes of replicating the success he enjoyed as a player, now from the managerial helm.
