Real Madrid have parted ways with head coach Xabi Alonso following their 3-2 defeat to rivals Barcelona in the SuperCopa final, the club announced on Sunday, less than 24 hours after the loss.
In an official statement, the LaLiga giants confirmed that the decision was reached by mutual agreement, bringing an abrupt end to Alonso’s tenure at the Santiago Bernabéu amid growing scrutiny of the team’s recent performances.
“Real Madrid CF announces that, by mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to end his time as first team coach,” the statement read. “Xabi Alonso will always have the affection and admiration of all Madrid fans because he is a Real Madrid legend and has always represented the values of our club. Real Madrid will always be his home.”
The club also expressed gratitude to the departing manager and his backroom staff, wishing them success in their future endeavours.
The decision follows Saturday night’s dramatic SuperCopa final, in which Madrid surrendered key moments to Barcelona in a five-goal thriller. Although the SuperCopa is traditionally viewed as a secondary competition, the manner of the defeat and Alonso’s post-match remarks appeared to intensify debate around his position.
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After the game, Alonso described the SuperCopa as “the least important” competition Real Madrid would contest this season, comments that reportedly did not sit well with sections of the club hierarchy and supporters, given the stature of El Clásico fixtures.
Alonso, a former midfield general for Los Blancos, returned to the club as manager with significant expectations, backed by his reputation as one of Europe’s most promising young coaches. His appointment was seen as a long-term project aimed at blending Madrid’s experienced core with emerging talents.
However, inconsistency in results and questions over tactical approach have followed the team in recent weeks, culminating in the SuperCopa loss that ultimately proved decisive.
Real Madrid are yet to announce an interim or permanent replacement, but sources close to the club suggest a swift decision is expected as they look to stabilise the dressing room ahead of crucial domestic and European fixtures.
Despite the abrupt end to his reign, Alonso departs with his legacy as a club legend intact, having won multiple major trophies as a player. For Real Madrid, attention now turns to resetting their campaign and restoring momentum as the season enters a demanding phase.
