Real Madrid confirm split with Xabi Alonso
Decision confirmed by the club
Real Madrid confirmed on 12 January 2026 that Xabi Alonso is no longer the club’s first team coach, following what it described as a mutual decision between both parties.
According to a statement published by Real Madrid C. F. on its official website, the club and Alonso agreed to conclude their collaboration without publicly outlining the specific sporting or institutional reasons behind the move.
The club did not announce an immediate successor or provide further detail on how the coaching transition will be handled.
Context behind the separation
In the weeks leading up to the announcement, signs had emerged that Alonso’s position was under growing scrutiny despite continued public backing.
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According to reporting by The Athletic in December, Real Madrid’s leadership would have preferred to maintain continuity and allow Alonso’s project more time, but internal expectations and recent performances weighed heavily on the final decision. At a club where results are paramount, patience is limited when performances fail to meet standards.
The same report indicated that while the board did not view Alonso as solely responsible for the situation, there was dissatisfaction with both results and the team’s overall image on the pitch.
Dressing room tensions and internal strain
Concerns were also raised about Alonso’s relationship with the squad. According to sources cited by The Athletic, parts of the dressing room struggled to connect with the coach’s ideas, creating friction that became increasingly difficult to manage.
Additional reporting attributed to @pepealvarezzz suggested that Alonso had grown worn down by internal dynamics, including strong personalities and what he perceived as a decline in respect within the squad. These tensions were said to have intensified in recent days, alongside a feeling that institutional support from the club had diminished over recent months.
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A figure closely tied to the club
Despite the circumstances of his exit, Real Madrid emphasized Alonso’s enduring status within the club. The announcement described him as a figure deeply connected to Madrid’s identity and values, regardless of his role on the sidelines.
According to Real Madrid C. F., Alonso remains a club legend whose relationship with the institution extends beyond the outcome of his coaching spell.
Respect expressed by the squad
Following the announcement, messages of appreciation also emerged from within the dressing room. Kylian Mbappé publicly acknowledged Alonso’s influence during their time working together.
“It’s been short but it was a pleasure to play for you and learn from you. Thank you for giving me the confidence since Day 1,” Mbappé said.
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“I will remember you as a manager who had clear ideas and knows many things about football. Best of luck for your next chapter.”
A transition framed by continuity
While the coaching change reflects the club’s intolerance for prolonged uncertainty, Real Madrid framed the departure as a professional decision rather than a personal rupture. The tone of the announcement, combined with messages from players, suggested that although Alonso’s tenure has ended, his connection to the club remains intact.
Sources: Real Madrid C. F., The Athletic, @pepealvarezzz
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