OFFICIAL: Real Madrid promptly appoints a replacement for Xabi Alonso

Real Madrid's official website has just released a statement confirming the name of the newly appointed head coach of the first team, marking a significant turning point in the club’s coaching affairs.

Specifically, in a press release published on January 13th (Vietnam time), Real Madrid stated: “Real Madrid C.F. announces that Alvaro Arbeloa has been appointed as the head coach of the first team.” This decision comes as the club has just concluded its cooperation with head coach Xabi Alonso, following a mutual agreement to terminate the contract.

Not long before, Real Madrid also confirmed: “After reaching a mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, both parties have decided to end their collaboration, thus closing the chapter of his tenure as the first team head coach.” 

The appointment of Alvaro Arbeloa was not unexpected. The former Spanish defender has spent many years working within Real Madrid’s youth academy system and is highly regarded for his tactical understanding and ability to convey the club’s identity.

Arbeloa has been the head coach of Real Madrid Castilla since June 2025 and previously held various coaching roles within the academy since 2020. He led Infantil A, Cadete A, and notably Juvenil A, where Arbeloa made a remarkable impact by achieving a historic treble in the 2022/23 season (Youth La Liga, Youth King’s Cup, and Youth Champions Cup), along with the Liga title in 2024/25.

Beyond his coaching success, Alvaro Arbeloa was also part of a golden era in Real Madrid’s history as a player. Between 2009 and 2016, he appeared in 238 official matches, winning 8 major trophies, including 2 Champions League titles, 1 FIFA Club World Cup, 1 La Liga championship, and 2 King’s Cups.

At the international level, Arbeloa was also part of Spain’s golden generation, winning the 2010 World Cup and the 2008 and 2012 European Championships. This background contributes to his reputation as a fitting figure to lead a highly ambitious yet pressure-filled Real Madrid squad.

Alongside the appointment of Arbeloa, Real Madrid also expressed gratitude towards Xabi Alonso, who has just ended his tenure as head coach. The club affirmed that Alonso will always be cherished and respected by all Madridista fans, as he is a legend and embodies the core values of the club.

“Real Madrid will always be Xabi Alonso’s home,” the club’s announcement emphasized, also extending thanks to him and his coaching staff for their dedication throughout their time with the club.