Image Credits: Imago Images
The Xabi Alonso era at Real Madrid has come to an abrupt and unceremonious end, with the Spanish giants pulling the trigger just seven months into the 44-year-old’s three-year contract. The decision, announced as a “mutual agreement” on Monday, followed Los Blancos’ bitter 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final.
Taking to Instagram following his dismissal, Alonso addressed his short-lived Madrid chapter with grace: “This professional stage is over, and it didn’t go as we would have liked. Coaching Real Madrid has been an honour and a responsibility. I thank the club, the players and above all the fans and Madrid fans for their trust and support. I leave with respect, gratitude, and pride that I did my best”.
Jurgen Klopp, who was immediately linked to the vacant Bernabéu hot seat, offered a sympathetic assessment of Alonso’s exit while distancing himself from the role. “I think it’s another sign that something is not working perfectly there,” Klopp told ServusTV. “If Xabi Alonso, who showed over two years in Leverkusen what an outstanding coaching talent he is, has to leave Real Madrid just half a year later, it reveals several issues. On the one hand, it demonstrates that there is little patience these days. On the other hand, the demands at Real are evidently immense”.
Despite his unceremonious end, Alonso won’t be short of suitors. According to Spanish outlet AS, three European heavyweights are positioning themselves to swoop for the tactician: Liverpool, Bayern Munich and Manchester City.
The report notes that while all three clubs currently have managers but wouldn’t hesitate to make their move should the opportunity arise. It’s claimed that Arne Slot’s position at Anfield remains the most precarious of the trio, while doubts surrounding Pep Guardiola’s long-term commitment to Manchester City are also there. Vincent Kompany appears the most secure at Bayern Munich, though the Bundesliga giants remain admirers of Alonso
Spanish regulations prevent Alonso from managing another La Liga club this season, but it remains to be seen how quickly Alonso wants to return to the managerial hotseat.
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