Xabi Alonso has agreed a deal to become the new head coach of Real Madrid, with the Spaniard set to sign an initial three-year contract at the Santiago Bernabéu.
The former midfielder, who made 236 appearances for the Spanish giants during his playing career, will succeed Carlo Ancelotti following the conclusion of the Bundesliga season, after informing Bayer Leverkusen of his intention to depart.
Alonso, 43, arrives as one of Europe’s most sought-after coaches, having guided Leverkusen to a historic domestic double this season. Under his leadership, the German side clinched their first-ever Bundesliga title—doing so unbeaten—and established a new European record of 51 matches unbeaten across all competitions.
Respected journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed the agreement between Real Madrid and Alonso, which includes the finalisation of his backroom staff. Real Madrid are planning for Alonso to take charge at this summer’s FIFA Club World Cup.
His appointment comes in the wake of a disappointing campaign for Los Blancos under Carlo Ancelotti. Real Madrid’s 4–3 El Clásico defeat to Barcelona on Sunday has all but ended their La Liga title hopes, leaving them seven points adrift with just three matches remaining. They also lost the Copa del Rey final and were eliminated from the Champions League quarter-finals by Arsenal, 5–1 on aggregate.
Despite the poor run, Ancelotti is expected to see out the remainder of the season. Reports in Spain suggest, however, that Real Madrid may announce his departure this week to begin the Alonso era as soon as possible.
Ancelotti, one of the most decorated coaches in Real Madrid’s history, is widely tipped to become head coach of the Brazil national team, where he is expected to lead the Selecão’s 2026 World Cup campaign.
Alonso recently bid farewell to Leverkusen fans following their defeat to Borussia Dortmund, hinting that an announcement regarding his next club was imminent.
Real Madrid hope that the new appointment will usher in a fresh era of success after a season that, despite the UEFA Super Cup triumph, has fallen short of expectations.