Real Madrid have announced the signing of Xabi Alonso as their new manager on a three-year deal. The 43-year-old former midfielder has returned to the club where he was such a pivotal figure, making 236 appearances as a player. He will formally assume control of the team starting on June 1, just before the next Club World Cup commences.
After retiring, Alonso got his first manager’s job in Real Madrid’s youth academy, leading the U14 A team in 2018-2019. Under his leadership the team was very successful, winning the league and champions tournament. That drive combined with this early success was a springboard for his meteoric coaching ascent.
At the beginning of this month, Alonso was confirmed to be leaving Bayer Leverkusen, where he had just completed a stellar, two-and-a-half-year run in charge. In his first full season with the German club, he guided them to a league and cup double last year. His challenge for an unprecedented unbeaten treble was halted. Leverkusen, under Xabi Alonso, were beaten by Atalanta in the Europa League final.
There is no doubt Xabi Alonso is one of the greatest legends of Real Madrid and world football.- Real Madrid statement
As he prepares to assume command at Real Madrid, arguably the highest-pressure managerial job in world football, Alonso’s remarkable record is notable. His profound emotional bond to the club endears him to fans and players alike. His experience as a player, combined with his recent managerial successes, positions him as a formidable leader for the team.
Club legend for both of the major teams he represented, Alonso is equally — if not more — revered as a Spanish national team legend. He won one World Cup (2010) and two European Championships (2008 and 2012) over the 113 international matches he played.
Xabi Alonso, a Spanish national team legend. He won one World Cup in 2010 and two European Championships in 2008 and 2012, racking up a dynamite 113 caps on the world stage.- Real Madrid statement
On Monday, Alonso will be officially unveiled at a special event in Madrid. He’ll be laying out his vision for the team’s future and taking questions from the media. The hope during his return to Real Madrid underscored the unrealistic expectations placed on his leadership.
“Now he returns to Real Madrid as one of the best coaches in the world, after making history at Bayer Leverkusen, where he won the league, cup and German Super Cup in three seasons.”- Real Madrid statement
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