Real Madrid have confirmed the appointment of Xabi Alonso as the club’s new head coach, with the former midfielder set to take charge from June 1, 2025. Alonso will replace outgoing manager Carlo Ancelotti, who is set to take over the Brazilian national team.
In an official statement released on Sunday, the Spanish giants announced that Alonso has signed a three-year contract running until June 30, 2028. He is also expected to lead the team at the FIFA Club World Cup.
“Xabi Alonso will be the Real Madrid coach for the next three seasons, from June 1, 2025, until June 30, 2028,” the statement read.
The 43-year-old departs German side Bayer Leverkusen at the end of the Bundesliga season, having guided them to a second-place finish. Alonso’s managerial success in Germany had drawn attention from several top European clubs, with Madrid maintaining strong interest for months.
“Alonso is one of the biggest legends at Real Madrid and in world football,” the club added. “He wore our shirt in 236 games between 2009 and 2014. During that time, he won six trophies.”
Alonso will be officially unveiled at a press conference scheduled for Monday at 10:30 GMT.