Image Credits: Imago Images
Kylian Mbappe has responded to the departure of Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso, who leaves the club after just seven months in charge. Alvaro Arbeloa, who has been coaching Real Madrid’s B team since June 2025 and spent the past six years in the club’s academy, has been named as Alonso’s successor.
Real announced Alonso’s exit a day after their Spanish Super Cup final defeat to Barcelona in Saudi Arabia. Real Madrid are second in LaLiga, four points behind leaders Barcelona, and seventh in their Champions League group, having won four of six games.
The club confirmed Alonso’s exit was by “mutual agreement,” noting his outstanding playing career with Real Madrid alongside his brief managerial tenure.
A club statement read: “Real Madrid C. F. wishes to announce that, by mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to bring his time as first team coach to an end.
“Xabi Alonso will always carry the affection and admiration of all Madridistas because he is a Real Madrid legend and has always represented the values of our club.
“Real Madrid will always be his home. We would like to thank Xabi Alonso and all his coaching staff for their hard work and dedication throughout this time, and wish them the best of luck in this new stage of their lives.
Alonso was appointed Real Madrid manager last summer, replacing Carlo Ancelotti, after leading Bayer Leverkusen to a surprise German league and cup double in 2024.
Earlier, he had been linked with the Liverpool job following Jurgen Klopp’s announcement that he would leave Anfield, but Alonso chose to remain at Leverkusen for another season before making the move to Madrid.
Kylian Mbappe has since paid tribute to Xabi Alonso. “It’s been short but it was a pleasure to play for you and learn from you,” he wrote on his Instagram story.
“Thank you for giving me the confidence since Day 1. I will remember you as a manager who had clear ideas and knows many things about football. Best of luck for your next chapter.”
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