Xabi Alonso has expressed happiness as he returns to his home country, Spain, to take over managerial duties at Real Madrid.
The Spanish manager was unveiled as Real Madrid manager on Monday 26 May, 2025 following the exit of Italian manager, Carlo Ancelotti, on Sunday.
Ancelotti alongside Croatian midfield maestro, Luka Modrić, made their last appearances for Real Madrid in the La Liga 2024/25 final match against Real Sociedad at Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday 25 May, 2025.
France international, Kylian Mbappe, scored both goals for the Los Blancos as Real Madrid ended their League campaign with 84 points, four (4) points behind new Kings of Spain, Barcelona, led by German manager, Hansi Flick.
Alonso said, “This is a very special day for me and one I will remember for the rest of my life. I’m thrilled to be back here, at my home.”
He is joining Real Madrid from German Bundesliga club, Bayer Leverkusen, after guiding the Black and Reds for three (3) season, winning the League, the Cup and the German Super Cup.
Alonso will manage Real Madrid for the next three (3) years.
According to real Madrid.com, the new Los Blancos boss said: “This is a very special day for me and one I will remember for the rest of my life. I’m thrilled to be back here, at my home. I’ve been away for a few years, but the ties with madridismo have never faded. About 90 minutes ago, I stepped back inside Valdebebas and the feelings flooded back again. It’s the start of a new chapter and I’d like to thank the president for the trust he’s shown in me, and for beliving I’m the right guy to lead this new era for the club. I’m full of energy and excited. I can feel how madridismo is eager for a new start and to add to the already incredible history of this club.”
Alonso left Bayer Leverkusen second-placed on the Bundesliga 2024/25 table, 13 points behind Bayern Munich, who were already confirmed League winners with two (2) games unplayed.
He continued: “The cycle has come to an end under Ancelotti, who was my coach. He left a mark on me and has been a huge influence. I wouldn’t be here without all I learned from him. I’m honoured to take over from him and proud to be in a place where he achieved so much. I hope I can live up to the expectations. We’re starting out on a new era and I feel like we have a fantastic team. That’s what fills me with the energy to come here, to try and get the best out of every single player as we build a great team. We can achieve big things worthy of Real Madrid and all they have won in the past. We want the fans to feel that emotion, and to enjoy and feel proud of their team. Hala Madrid!”
Photo: Real Madrid President, Florentino Perez, unveils Xabi Alonso as the Los Blancos’ new head coach. X/@realmadriden
