Newly appointed Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has vowed to bring back glory to the Spanish giants as he begins a new chapter at the Santiago Bernabéu. The 43-year-old was officially unveiled on Monday as the successor to Carlo Ancelotti, who has taken up the role of Brazil national team coach.
Alonso, who signed a three-year deal running until June 2028, will guide Real Madrid at the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, kicking off on June 18 against Al-Hilal in Miami.
Madrid Seeking Redemption After Trophyless Season
Real Madrid endured a disappointing 2023/24 campaign, losing the La Liga title to arch-rivals Barcelona and falling short in the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup finals. Their UEFA Champions League hopes were crushed by Arsenal in a heavy quarter-final defeat.
But Alonso remains optimistic:
“We have fantastic players and a team full of potential — strong now and for the future,” he said.
“I’m full of energy and hope. I want to bring out the best in every player and build something special.”
A Legend Returns
Xabi Alonso, a fan favorite and former midfield maestro, made 236 appearances for Real Madrid between 2009 and 2014, winning six trophies, including the historic 10th Champions League title — La Décima. The club now holds a record 15 UEFA Champions League titles.
Alonso’s stellar coaching run at Bayer Leverkusen, where he secured an unbeaten Bundesliga and DFB Pokal double in 2023/24, earned him global recognition. Now, he returns to lead the club he once starred for.
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“Though I’ve been away, my bond with Real Madrid has never broken,” Alonso stated.
“Today feels like a rebirth. This is the beginning of a new era.”
Florentino Pérez: “Welcome Home, Xabi Alonso”
Club president Florentino Pérez expressed confidence in the new manager, saying:
“Today, we welcome one of our own. A world-class coach who understands the values of Real Madrid. Xabi Alonso, welcome back home.”
Alonso, a World Cup and two-time European Championship winner with Spain, now faces his first major test as Real Madrid boss this summer in the Club World Cup.
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