Xabi Alonso Returns to Real Madrid as New Head Coach

Real Madrid have officially named their former midfielder, Xabi Alonso, as their new manager on a three-year contract.

Alonso, who played 236 matches for the Spanish giants, confirmed earlier this month that he would be leaving Bayer Leverkusen at the end of the season. The 43-year-old Spaniard, known for his composure and leadership on the pitch, now steps in to succeed Carlo Ancelotti.

Ancelotti, after overseeing his final match with Real Madrid on Saturday, is set to take over as Brazil’s national team coach.

A Champions League winner with Real Madrid in 2014, Alonso will be formally presented as manager on Monday at the club’s training ground. Earlier this month, Ancelotti praised Alonso, calling him “one of the best in the world.”

Alonso’s managerial star has risen quickly. He led Bayer Leverkusen to their historic first Bundesliga title an unbeaten league campaign and lifted the German Cup in the 2023-24 season, his first full year managing at senior club level. However, Leverkusen narrowly missed retaining the Bundesliga this term, finishing runners-up to Bayern Munich.

Meanwhile, former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is reportedly close to securing a deal to replace Alonso at Leverkusen.