WELCOME XABI ALONSO | Real Madrid
On May 26, 2025, Real Madrid officially welcomed back one of its most iconic figures, Xabi Alonso, as the club's new head coach. This appointment marks a significant moment, as Alonso returns to the Santiago Bernabéu, where he previously made 236 appearances as a player between 2009 and 2014, securing six major titles, including La Décima .(Real Madrid)
📝 A New Chapter Begins
Alonso's managerial journey has been nothing short of impressive. After initiating his coaching career with Real Madrid's youth academy, he progressed to manage Real Sociedad B and then took the helm at Bayer Leverkusen. During his tenure in Germany, he led Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga title and clinched the German Cup, showcasing his tactical acumen and leadership qualities .
Now, at 43, Alonso embarks on a new challenge, signing a three-year contract with Real Madrid, set to run until June 30, 2028 . His first official match as head coach will be at the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, commencing on June 15, 2025 .
🎙️ Alonso's Vision for Real Madrid
During his unveiling at Real Madrid City, Alonso expressed deep emotion and pride in returning to the club. He emphasized his commitment to building upon the legacy of his predecessor, Carlo Ancelotti, stating, "Without his mastery, I probably wouldn't be here" .
Alonso outlined his ambition to transform Real Madrid into an "unstoppable force," focusing on dynamic and emotionally engaging football. He aims to maximize the potential of star players like Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Jr., ensuring they thrive within his tactical framework .
🔍 Challenges Ahead
Taking over after a season where Real Madrid finished second in LaLiga and faced early exits in both domestic cups and the Champions League, Alonso is tasked with revitalizing the squad. Key areas of focus include:
-
Defensive Reinforcements: Integrating new signings such as Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen to bolster the backline .
-
Midfield Dynamics: Addressing the departure of Luka Modrić and enhancing midfield creativity, with potential targets like Martín Zubimendi and Florian Wirtz on the radar.
-
Youth Development: Leveraging the talent within Real Madrid's academy to ensure a sustainable and competitive squad for the future.
⚪ Embracing the Madridista Spirit
Alonso's return is more than a managerial appointment; it's a homecoming that resonates with fans and embodies the club's rich history. His deep understanding of Real Madrid's culture and values positions him uniquely to lead the team into a new era of success.
As the countdown to the Club World Cup begins, anticipation builds for the dawn of the Xabi Alonso era at Real Madrid.
