sports
January 13, 2026
Xabi Alonso failed to control Real Madrid’s egos in brief and bitter reign
Hired as a systems coach, the manager was undermined at a club where players – and Florentino Pérez – call the shots
TL;DR
- Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid manager for seven months, was sacked after a series of poor results, including heavy defeats against PSG and Atlético Madrid.
- Álvaro Arbeloa, a former teammate of Alonso, has been appointed as the new coach, promoted from the B team, emphasizing Real Madrid's need to 'win, win, win, and win again'.
- Alonso struggled to implement his desired collective playing style, facing resistance from players and a perceived disconnect with the club's hierarchy and president Florentino Pérez.
- Key issues included player egos, such as Vinícius Júnior's public anger at being substituted, and requests for specific players like Martín Zubimendi being rejected.
- Arbeloa, influenced by José Mourinho, stated his focus is on winning and filling the trophy cabinets, acknowledging the immense responsibility and avoiding comparisons to Mourinho.
- The club's culture prioritizes immediate results over long-term projects, a stark contrast to Alonso's initial vision.
- Injuries and perceived issues with physical preparation also contributed to the challenges during Alonso's tenure.
Continue reading the original article