Madrid — The next chapter in Real Madrid’s glittering history will be written by a familiar hand. Xabi Alonso, the former midfield general who once commanded the Bernabéu with quiet authority, has been named the club’s new manager.
Alonso, 43, has signed a contract through 2028 and is expected to officially begin his role ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup next month. The news, confirmed by Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano on Sunday, ends weeks of speculation over Carlo Ancelotti’s successor.
“Here we go,” Romano posted on social media, the phrase now synonymous with major transfer confirmations.
Alonso’s move comes on the heels of an emotional farewell to Bayer Leverkusen, where he announced his departure following their final home match last weekend. It brings to a close a transformative spell in Germany that saw Leverkusen rise to unexpected heights.
A swift transition planned
Alonso will step in just days after Real Madrid’s season concludes on 25 May. Leverkusen play their final Bundesliga match on 17 May, giving the Spaniard a narrow window to wrap up affairs in Germany before beginning preparations in Spain.
Sources close to the club say all terms have been agreed, including the backroom staff Alonso plans to bring along. The goal is to have him in place for Madrid’s opening match of the Club World Cup in June, allowing the former Spain international to begin shaping his side in earnest.
The change also signals the end of Carlo Ancelotti’s second spell in charge. Though Real Madrid have yet to issue a formal statement, the Italian is widely expected to take over the Brazilian national team—a move reportedly in the final stages of negotiation.
Ancelotti’s legacy, Alonso’s task
Ancelotti, who guided Madrid to La Liga glory and multiple Champions League triumphs, leaves behind a towering legacy. But with Alonso, the club is looking forward—leaning into a younger, more modern approach.
While still early in his managerial career, Alonso has impressed observers with his tactical intelligence and calm presence on the touchline. At Leverkusen, he led the club to a historic domestic double last season and guided them to the Europa League final. This year, they finished second in the Bundesliga and reached the Champions League round of 16.
“He’s shown great promise, but Madrid is a different stage,” said Spanish football analyst Guillem Balagué. “The pressure is relentless, the expectations sky-high. It will be a big test.”
A return written in the stars
For many Madrid fans, Alonso’s appointment is more than just a managerial change—it’s a homecoming. He spent five seasons at the club from 2009 to 2014, winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the long-coveted ‘La Décima’ Champions League title.
“Xabi understands the DNA of Madrid,” said former teammate Iker Casillas in a recent interview. “He knows what it takes to win here, not just as a player, but as a leader.”
Supporters have also expressed cautious optimism. While Alonso’s relative inexperience at the top level raises questions, his deep ties to the club and recent successes in Germany have built hope for a fresh start.
Looking ahead
With major changes looming, including expected shifts in style and squad development, Alonso’s arrival marks the beginning of a new era at the Bernabéu.
“Every cycle comes to an end,” said a club source close to the negotiations. “Now it’s time to build again—with someone who knows what Real Madrid stands for.”
The stage is set. The torch is passed. And for Xabi Alonso, the real work starts now
