Investigation Resumes: Alonso's Inquiry into Monarchy's Affairs
Real Madrid welcomes Xabi Alonso's return, this time as a coach, following the departure of Carlo Ancelotti. The former midfielder is set to replace Ancelotti, with whom he played during his active years at the legendary Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.
The announcement was made less than 24 hours after Ancelotti's emotional farewell. Alonso will be officially introduced at the Ciudad Real Madrid on Monday at 12:30 PM, after signing a contract with the club that will commence on June 1, 2025. His contract will extend until June 30, 2028.
Alonso's responsibilities will begin immediately, overseeing the team for the Club World Cup, scheduled to take place in the USA from June 14 to July 13. The tournament features 32 clubs, offering an immediate title opportunity for the 43-year-old coach.
Notably, Alonso's contract with Bayer Leverkusen would have run for another year. Details of his transfer to Real Madrid remain undisclosed. However, numerous reports suggest a transfer fee between 12 and 15 million euros. It is unclear whether any portion of this fee will remain with Leverkusen.
The Dutchman Erik ten Hag has been tipped to replace Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen. Under Alonso's leadership, the German team achieved impressive results, winning the championship, the DFB-Pokal, and reaching the Europa League final in the 2023/24 season.
Real Madrid and FC Barcelona are set to face off in an intriguing coach duel, as Hansi Flick takes charge of the latter. Last season, Barça overwhelmed their rivals, claiming the championship, the Copa del Rey, and the Supercopa, having won all four Clásicos against Real.
Comunicado Oficial: Xabi Alonso.#RealMadrid | #WelcomeXabi— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) May 25, 2025
Alonso carved out an impressive coaching career at the youth level of Real Madrid, winning two titles with the U13 team. His appointment as the new head coach follows months of discussions and speculation about the future of Carlo Ancelotti.
Throughout his playing career, Alonso made 236 appearances for Real Madrid, winning six titles, including the Champions League in 2014 under the guidance of Ancelotti.
In terms of expectations at Real Madrid, Alonso is expected to revitalize the team's style of play, focusing on possession football combined with high pressing and quick transitions. He will bring adaptability, leadership, and a deep understanding of the club's values and history, aiming to continue his legacy as a coach.
Alonso's coaching achievements at Bayer Leverkusen include winning the Bundesliga title and the DFB-Pokal, while also reaching the Europa League final. He is known for implementing tactical innovations, emphasizing positional rigor, high pressing, and quick transitions.
Fans of both Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen may once again cross paths in the next season if the teams meet in the Champions League.
The football season is about to kick off asReal Madrid's new coach, Xabi Alonso, officially begins his duties overseeing the team, starting with the Club World Cup. Despite his contract with Bayer Leverkusen extending for another year, Alonso's former club, Real Madrid, managed to close a deal before the football season ends.
