Real Madrid are on the verge of appointing Xabi Alonso as their new manager, with the 43-year-old set to take charge in June ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup.
The former Bayer Leverkusen boss, who led his side to a Bundesliga title last season, will replace Carlo Ancelotti and aim to rejuvenate Los Blancos.
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Xabi Alonso Confirmed to Join Real Madrid(BRG365)
Alonso Confirmed as Madrid’s New Manager
Real Madrid have finalised a three-year deal with Xabi Alonso, who will officially join on June 1, 2025.
The club prioritises having Alonso in place for the June 14 Club World Cup in the United States, where Madrid will face Al-Hilal in Miami.
Sources indicate Alonso initially preferred a later start but agreed to accelerate his arrival after Madrid emphasised the tournament’s €150 million prize pool and prestige.
Why Alonso?
Madrid’s decision to hire Alonso stems from his proven ability to transform teams.
At Leverkusen, he won the Bundesliga undefeated and the German Cup in 2023/24, showcasing tactical flexibility and a focus on possession-based football.
His 3-4-2-1 system, which utilises overlapping wing-backs and a double pivot, contrasts with Ancelotti’s 4-3-3 but aligns with Madrid’s need for defensive stability and midfield control.
Moreover, Alonso’s ties to Madrid as a former player (2009-2014) grant him instant respect in the dressing room.
His calm leadership and rapport with stars like Jude Bellingham and Vinícius Júnior are seen as vital for restoring morale after a disappointing season that saw Madrid miss out on La Liga and exit the Champions League early.
Transfer Push
Madrid are racing to finalise the signing of Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold before the Club World Cup.
The right-back, whose contract expires in June, could join for a €1 million compensation fee, with Madrid eager to integrate him into Alonso’s system.
Defensive upgrades remain a priority. Madrid are targeting a left-back and central defender, with names like Álvaro Carreras (€60m) and Dean Huijsen (€50m) under consideration.
Alonso’s familiarity with Leverkusen’s Jonathan Tah could also influence recruitment, though high transfer fees may delay moves.
Tight Timeline
Alonso will have just two weeks to prepare Madrid for the Club World Cup after arriving on June 1.
The squad’s fatigue and injuries pose challenges, but Alonso’s emphasis on positional discipline and rapid transitions—hallmarks of his Leverkusen tenure—could yield early results.
A strong tournament performance would set a positive tone for the 2025-26 season, where Madrid aim to reclaim domestic and European dominance under their new tactician.
