Official: Xabi Alonso to lead Real Madrid as head coach from 2025
Former midfield maestro Xabi Alonso returns to the Bernabéu as head coach with a three-year deal in place, replacing Carlo Ancelotti

In a major move set to shape the future of Real Madrid, the club has reportedly reached a full agreement with Xabi Alonso to become their next head coach. According to MARCA and other reputable outlets, Alonso will sign a three-year contract and officially take charge following the FIFA Club World Cup.
The former Real Madrid and Spain midfielder, currently enjoying success at Bayer Leverkusen, is returning to the Santiago Bernabéu, this time in a leadership role. He will bring along his trusted assistant Sebas Parrilla, with whom he’s worked since his early coaching days in the Real Madrid youth setup. Alberto Encinas is expected to join as the physical trainer, possibly replacing veteran Antonio Pintus, while goalkeeper coach Luis Llopis will retain his role.
Xabi Alonso’s coaching style emphasizes possession-based football in a structured 3-4-3 formation. He is known for demanding intelligent build-up play and tactical discipline—attributes that will likely influence upcoming signings and Real Madrid’s on-field identity.
Though Alonso will have input on transfers, Real Madrid’s board will maintain the final say. Nevertheless, the club is already active in the market, having secured Trent Alexander-Arnold on a free transfer. Additional targets include Girona left-back Miguel Gutiérrez, Real Sociedad’s MartÃn Zubimendi, Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen, and Arsenal’s William Saliba.
This transition follows the mutually agreed departure of Carlo Ancelotti, who is expected to take charge of the Brazilian national team for the 2026 World Cup. The official announcement of his exit is scheduled for May 25, 2025.
Alonso’s return to Madrid marks the beginning of a new era—one that aims to blend legacy, tactical evolution, and future-focused squad development. Fans are eager to see how he will maximize the potential of megastars like Kylian Mbappé, VinÃcius Júnior, and Rodrygo under his innovative system.
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