Xabi Alonso Leaves Real Madrid With Immediate Effect After El Clásico Defeat
Sports Updated: 12 January 2026 20:33 EAT
Xabi Alonso sacked as Real Madrid boss
Xabi Alonso has officially left Real Madrid with immediate effect, bringing an abrupt end to his tenure as head coach following the club’s latest loss to Barcelona.
Real Madrid confirmed on Monday that the decision was reached by mutual agreement, less than a day after the team suffered a 3–2 defeat to their arch-rivals in the Spanish Super Cup final.
The El Clásico loss proved decisive, intensifying internal pressure amid growing concern over performances in key matches this season, despite the team remaining in contention across competitions.
Alonso took charge at the start of the 2025/26 campaign after an outstanding spell at Bayer Leverkusen, arriving at the Santiago Bernabéu with a strong reputation and high expectations.
His appointment was seen as part of a long-term project, but inconsistent results and repeated setbacks against Barcelona weakened confidence within the club hierarchy.
In a brief statement, Real Madrid acknowledged Alonso’s contribution and highlighted his status as a club legend, while stressing that the decision was taken in the best interests of the team.
The club has not yet announced a permanent replacement, with an interim arrangement expected as discussions continue behind the scenes.
Alonso’s departure marks another significant managerial change at Real Madrid, underlining the club’s unforgiving standards as it looks to quickly regain momentum and silverware.
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FELIX MAKONA
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