Why Real Madrid Sacked Xabi Alonso – Real Reasons Behind Supercopa Loss & Exit

In a stunning development that’s sent shockwaves through the football world, Real Madrid have parted ways with head coach Xabi Alonso just seven months into his tenure, following a humiliating 3-2 defeat to arch-rivals Barcelona in the 2026 Supercopa de España final.

Xabi Alonso sacked by Real Madrid with immediate effect, less than 24 hours after losing to Barcelona in the 2026 Super Cup final.

The club announced the decision on Monday, framing it as a “mutual agreement,” but sources reveal deeper issues including poor results, dressing room unrest, and tactical mismatches.

Alonso, a Real Madrid legend as a player, is replaced by former defender Álvaro Arbeloa, who steps up from the B-team.

Alvaro Arbeloa replaces Xabi Alonso as new Real Madrid manager with immediate effect.

Here’s the full breakdown of the bombshell exit and its implications for Los Blancos’ season.

The Trigger: Supercopa Final Loss to Barcelona

The final straw came on Sunday, January 11, when Real Madrid fell 3-2 to Barcelona in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia—handing the Blaugrana their second consecutive Supercopa title. Despite a spirited comeback attempt, Madrid’s defensive frailties and lack of cohesion were exposed, with Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham unable to salvage the result.

This defeat capped a turbulent period, during which Madrid sit second in La Liga (four points behind leaders Barcelona) and seventh in the Champions League group stage.

Alonso had narrowly avoided the sack in late 2025 after a dismal run, but a five-game winning streak bought him time. However, the Supercopa loss—coupled with fan frustration over the team’s “image” and inconsistent performances—proved fatal.

Underlying Reasons: Why Real Madrid Fired Xabi Alonso

While the club statement praised Alonso’s legacy—”Xabi Alonso will always have the affection and admiration of everyone at Real Madrid”—insiders point to multiple factors behind the split:

• Poor Results Across Competitions: Since taking over from Carlo Ancelotti in June 2025, Alonso’s Madrid has won just 55% of their matches, with notable lows including early Copa del Rey exits and Champions League struggles. The board was “unhappy with the team’s image and recent results,” despite not holding Alonso solely responsible.
• Dressing Room Dissatisfaction: Rumors of unrest in Madrid’s “superstar-saturated” squad surfaced, with players reportedly struggling to adapt to Alonso’s tactical demands. His high-pressing, structured style—successful at Bayer Leverkusen—clashed with the freedom preferred by stars like Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius. This led to a “toxic” atmosphere, exacerbating on-pitch inconsistencies.
• Lack of Consistency: Madrid’s form rollercoaster—from title challengers to mid-table Champions League performers—highlighted tactical mismatches. Alonso’s inability to integrate new signings and manage egos sealed his fate, echoing past managerial casualties at the Bernabéu.

Official Statement and Arbeloa’s Appointment

Real Madrid’s brief communique read: “Real Madrid C.F. announces that, by mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to put an end to his time as first team coach.” They emphasized Alonso’s playing heroics (2014 Champions League winner) and wished him well, stating: “Real Madrid will always be his home.”

Stepping in is Álvaro Arbeloa, 42, a Madrid academy product and former player (2009-2016). Having coached the B-team since June 2025 and worked in the youth setup for six years, Arbeloa brings familiarity and club DNA.

His first challenge: Steadying the ship ahead of a packed La Liga and Champions League schedule.

Reactions and What’s Next for Alonso

The football community is reeling. Liverpool fans, where Alonso starred from 2004-2009, speculate on a potential Anfield link amid their own managerial debates.

For Alonso, 43, this marks a setback after his Bayer Leverkusen triumphs (2024 Bundesliga unbeaten). Rumors swirl of a sabbatical or return to Germany, but his Madrid ties suggest a future role—perhaps non-coaching.

For Real Madrid, Arbeloa’s interim spell could define their 2025/26 campaign. With Barcelona surging under Hansi Flick, the pressure is on to reclaim dominance. Will this sacking spark a revival, or deepen the crisis?