Xabi Alonso Returns to Real Madrid as Manager in 2025 Shift

From Midfield Maestro to Madrid Mastermind

Real Madrid Appoints Alonso on Three-Year Deal
Real Madrid have confirmed Xabi Alonso as their new manager, handing the former midfielder a three-year contract until June 2028. Alonso replaces Carlo Ancelotti, who departs the Bernabéu to begin his tenure as Brazil’s national team coach.

Alonso Begins New Era After Historic Leverkusen Run
Alonso leaves Bayer Leverkusen after making history, guiding the club to their first Bundesliga title—undefeated. He also lifted the German Cup and reached the Europa League final, transforming Leverkusen into one of Europe’s most exciting and efficient teams.

First Assignment: Club World Cup in the USA
Alonso will be officially introduced at Real Madrid’s training complex on Monday. His debut match will be at the Club World Cup on June 18, where Real face Saudi side Al-Hilal in what promises to be a new dawn in Madrid.

Ancelotti Bows Out, Praises Alonso’s Potential
Departing coach Carlo Ancelotti has praised Alonso as “one of the best in the world.” The veteran Italian ends his second spell at Madrid with La Liga and Champions League titles, passing the torch to his former midfield general.

A Rapid Rise Through the Coaching Ranks
Alonso began coaching Real Madrid’s U14s in 2018. He gained credibility with Real Sociedad B before taking over struggling Leverkusen in 2022. Within two seasons, he turned the German side into title winners, losing just one game in 53 outings.

Linked with Europe’s Elite Before Madrid Call
Alonso had been linked to Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Liverpool. Despite early-season speculation, he committed to Leverkusen in March 2024. But the allure of managing his former club proved irresistible when Real Madrid made their approach official.

Leverkusen Finish Second in Title Defence Attempt
Although Leverkusen suffered just three Bundesliga losses in the 2024-25 season, they couldn’t retain their title, finishing second behind Bayern. They also exited the Champions League in the round of 16 and lost a German Cup semi-final shocker.

Alonso’s Legacy Begins Where His Stardom Grew
A Champions League winner with Real in 2014, Alonso now returns with a vision and resume fit for the Bernabéu spotlight. The 43-year-old World Cup and double Euro champion now takes charge of the club he once orchestrated from midfield.

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Xabi Alonso: Real Madrid appoint Bayer Leverkusen boss as Carlo Ancelotti replacement – BBC Sport