Real Madrid have reportedly sacked head coach Xabi Alonso following the club’s 3–2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final on Sunday.
Alonso leaves the Santiago Bernabéu after just seven months in charge, with the decision coming a day after the pulsating Clásico loss in Jeddah exposed ongoing concerns over Madrid’s form and direction.
The former Real Madrid midfielder endured a difficult start to his tenure, with issues from last season spilling into the current campaign.
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Madrid’s struggles were compounded by a lack of balance following the arrival of Kylian Mbappé, problems that had already surfaced under Carlo Ancelotti during a trophyless 2024/25 season.
In a statement, the club confirmed that Alonso had departed “by mutual agreement” after the Super Cup final defeat, with Madrid also trailing Barcelona by four points at the top of La Liga.
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“Real Madrid C.F. announces that, by mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to end his tenure as first-team coach,” the statement read.
“Xabi Alonso will always have the affection and admiration of all Madrid fans because he is a Real Madrid legend and has always embodied the values of our club. Real Madrid will always be his home.
“Our club thanks Xabi Alonso and his entire coaching staff for their work and dedication during this time and wishes them the best of luck in this new chapter of their lives.”
His Madrid reign began promisingly, with 13 wins from 14 matches following the Club World Cup semi-finals, the only blemish being a heavy derby defeat to Atlético Madrid.
