Introduction to Xabi Alonso’s New Role
The Spanish football giant Real Madrid confirmed Bayer Leverkusen Coach Xabi Alonso as its new coach on June 1st. The former midfielder Alonso had confirmed at the beginning of this month that he would leave Leverkusen after leading the club to its first Bundesliga title last season, ending the eleven-year rule of Bayern Munich in the league.
What do we know about Alonso’s move to Madrid?
"Xabi Alonso will be the Real Madrid coach for the next three seasons from June 1, 2025 to June 30, 2028," said the Spanish club in a statement. The move was generally expected. Basque coach Alonso had an agreement that made it possible for him to go if one of his former clubs – Real Madrid, Liverpool or Bayern Munich – wanted to hire him. His achievement, while Leverkusen’s surprise run in Germany did not become a top goal for European clubs. Alonso won the league with Leverkusen last season, but also completed a historical domestic period by steering it to the German Cup and the German Super Cup.
Background on Alonso’s Career
The 43-year-old takes over the Spanish club from Carlo Ancelotti, Italy, who is expected to be a Brazilian national coach before the 2026 World Cup. Although Ancelotti had a year in his contract, he has agreed to separate from the club after an overwhelming season and his interest in the Brazil work. Alonso enjoyed success as a player at Bayern Munich, whose run from League title would end.
Additional Information on Alonso’s Career
Alonso is said to join Real in front of the extended Club World Championship, which is to take place in the United States from June 14 to July 14. He started his coaching career at the Real Madrid youth academy and headed the U-14 team in the 2018/19 season. Alonso played for the club from 2009 to 2014, made 236 appearances and won several titles, including the Champions League, La Liga and Copa del Rey. As a player in Liverpool, Alonso won the UEFA Champions League in 2005 with a decisive goal in the final. In the Bayern Munich, he secured three consecutive Bundesliga titles and the German Cup 2016.
