Real Madrid confirmed this Sunday that Xabi Alonso will take over as the new head coach of the first team, replacing Italian manager Carlo Ancelotti. The coach from Tolosa will sign a three-year deal running from June 1, 2025, through June 30, 2028, marking a return to the club where he was both a player and a youth coach.

From Valdebebas talent to Bundesliga star

Xabi Alonso began his coaching career in Real Madrid’s youth academy, where he led the Infantil A team during the 2018–2019 season, winning both the league and the Champions Tournament. He later moved on to coach Real Sociedad B, also known as Sanse, before making his jump to top-level football with Bayer Leverkusen.

In Germany, Alonso had a dream spell, ending Bayern Munich’s dominance by leading Leverkusen to their first-ever Bundesliga title in the 2023–24 season—going unbeaten the whole campaign. He also added the German Cup and German Super Cup to his trophy haul, cementing his place as one of the most exciting managers in European football.

Madrid and Spain legend

As a player, Xabi Alonso made 236 official appearances for Real Madrid between 2009 and 2014, winning six major trophies: the iconic 10th Champions League title in Lisbon, a UEFA Super Cup, one La Liga, two Copa del Rey titles, and a Spanish Super Cup. He also made his mark with Spain’s national team, winning a World Cup (2010) and two European Championships (2008 and 2012), earning 113 caps.

In its official statement, the club highlighted Alonso’s growth as a coach, calling him "one of the best managers in the world." His return to the Santiago Bernabéu bench signals the start of a new era at Real Madrid, full of hope that he’ll bring the same success from his playing and coaching days to the highest level of the game.