Real Madrid have announced the departure of head coach Xabi Alonso, just a day after the club’s defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final.
The decision, confirmed on Monday, comes after Barcelona edged Los Blancos in a dramatic five-goal thriller in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to retain the title. In an official statement, the club revealed that Alonso’s exit was reached through a mutual agreement.
“Real Madrid C.F. communicates that, by mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to end his time as coach of the first team,” the statement said.
Alonso, a celebrated former midfielder for Real Madrid, received glowing tributes from the club, which described him as a symbol of its core values.
“Xabi Alonso will always have the affection and admiration of all Real Madrid because he is a legend of Real Madrid and has always represented the values of our club. Real Madrid will always be his home,” the statement added.
The club also extended gratitude to Alonso’s coaching staff for their commitment and professionalism throughout their tenure at the Santiago Bernabéu.
“Real Madrid thanks Xabi Alonso and all his technical team for their work and dedication throughout this time, and wishes them good luck in this new stage of their lives.”