Xabi Alonso decision on Man United already clear after Madrid exit

January 13, 2026 Oliver Obel

Manchester United’s latest managerial crossroads has again drawn attention to Xabi Alonso. Yet despite his sudden availability following his departure from Real Madrid, there are strong indications that Old Trafford is unlikely to feature in his immediate plans.

Alonso left the Spanish giants earlier this week, ending a short and pressurised spell in charge. The timing of the decision, midway through the European season, has inevitably sharpened interest from England, where his reputation as a future elite coach remains intact.

Madrid exit adds context, not momentum

Real Madrid confirmed on Monday that Alonso had stepped down following their defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final. At the time of his departure, Madrid were four points behind their rivals in La Liga and sat seventh in the Champions League table after six matches.

The 44-year-old had arrived last summer from Bayer Leverkusen and was replaced by former club defender Alvaro Arbeloa.

In a statement, Madrid underlined Alonso’s long-standing connection to the club, describing him as a “Real Madrid legend” and thanking him and his staff for their work during his brief tenure.

English clubs continue to monitor situation

Alonso’s name has long circulated within Premier League circles. A former Liverpool player, he has previously been linked by British media with Manchester City as a potential long-term successor to Pep Guardiola, while Liverpool have also been mentioned during a difficult season under Arne Slot.

Those discussions pre-date his move to Madrid and reflect broader admiration for his tactical profile rather than any immediate vacancy-driven pursuit.

United history complicates any return

Manchester United’s circumstances have shifted following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim, prompting renewed debate around long-term options. Alonso, however, has already been considered and passed over once before.

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According to the Daily Mail, United explored appointing Alonso in the summer of 2025 before deciding to continue with Erik ten Hag. That approach stalled after Alonso declined the opportunity to take charge at Old Trafford.

For United, that matters.

Although Alonso is now without a club and United are again preparing for a permanent appointment, his previous decision suggests the role may not align with his long-term vision.

The club are expected to appoint an interim manager for the remainder of the season, with Michael Carrick reported as the leading candidate, before turning to a permanent solution next summer. Despite Alonso’s credentials, United may once again be forced to look elsewhere.

Sources: SPORTbible, Daily Mail