Xabi Alonso Confirms Real Madrid Exit After Seven-Month Spell

Xabi Alonso has broken his silence following his departure from Real Madrid, releasing a personal statement on his social media channels days after leaving the club.

The Spaniard confirmed the end of his short spell at the Bernabéu, which lasted just seven months of an initial three-year agreement, with Real Madrid sitting second in La Liga at the time of his exit.

Alonso’s departure followed defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final, a result that compounded a difficult period for the club.

In his statement, the former midfielder admitted the stint did not unfold as planned, describing the role as both a privilege and a heavy responsibility.

“This chapter of my career has come to an end,” Alonso wrote on Instagram. “It hasn’t turned out as we would have liked. Coaching Real Madrid has been both an honour and a responsibility. I thank the club, the players, and above all, the fans and the Madridista community for their trust and support. I leave with respect, gratitude, and the pride of having done my best.”

Alonso had stepped into one of football’s most demanding roles after succeeding Carlo Ancelotti, a manager who delivered three UEFA Champions League titles during his time in charge.

Expectations were high, but results over a difficult stretch between November and December raised concerns, with Real Madrid managing only three wins from nine matches across all competitions during that period.

Those struggles ultimately contributed to growing pressure, and the Super Cup loss appeared to confirm what many inside the club had sensed.

Shortly after Alonso’s exit, Real Madrid moved quickly to appoint Álvaro Arbeloa as his replacement, promoting the former defender from Real Madrid Castilla to take charge of the first team.