Published Date: 2025-05-12 10:05:08 Updated At: 2025-05-12 10:05:08

In a dramatic development on the European football scene, renowned Italian journalist and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Spanish coach Xabi Alonso has finalized all the details of his move to take over as Real Madrid’s new manager. Alonso has reportedly signed a contract that runs until 2028, officially becoming the successor to Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti, whose tenure with the club ends at the conclusion of the current season.

Romano, known for his accuracy and trusted sources in the world of football transfers, announced via his official account on platform “X” that the deal is done. Alonso has signed a three-year contract starting from the new season, in what is considered one of the most anticipated managerial appointments in recent European football history.

The move didn’t come as a complete surprise. For months, speculation and reports have linked Alonso with a return to the Spanish capital, especially following his remarkable success with Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga. Under his guidance, the German side made history by winning the league title undefeated, ending Bayern Munich’s dominance and firmly establishing Alonso as one of the most promising young managers in Europe.

Alonso, a former Real Madrid midfield maestro and team leader, now returns to the Santiago Bernabéu in a completely different role — yet with the same passion and discipline that defined his playing days. His short managerial career has already shown a distinct tactical identity, modern football vision, and a refreshing interpretation of high pressing and intelligent ball control.

Real Madrid, on its part, had initially planned to maintain coaching stability until the season's end. However, a series of disappointing results — capped by a crushing 4-0 defeat to arch-rivals Barcelona in El Clásico — hastened the decision. That loss, under the direction of new Barcelona coach Hansi Flick, proved to be the final straw for many Madridistas, increasing the pressure on Ancelotti amid the team’s struggles in major matches and tactical inconsistencies.

The club now sees Alonso as the ideal figure to lead the next era — a manager capable of bridging the club’s rich legacy with a modern approach. He enjoys strong rapport with players, possesses a commanding leadership presence, and brings tactical insights shaped by legendary mentors like Mourinho, Guardiola, and Ancelotti himself.

According to Spanish reports, Real Madrid has no interest in interim appointments or transitional periods. The club’s board has chosen to hand over the reins to Alonso immediately after Ancelotti’s official departure. Expectations suggest that Alonso will officially begin his role by leading the team in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup — a tournament the club is keen to win, especially after investing heavily in promising young talents in recent years.

Spanish outlet Marca previously reported that Alonso has long been the club’s top managerial target, enjoying the backing of the sporting department and President Florentino Pérez, who sees Alonso as the embodiment of Real Madrid’s values both on and off the pitch.

Interestingly, Alonso is no stranger to pressure. Having played for giants like Real Sociedad, Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, he has translated these experiences into a coaching philosophy that blends German discipline, Spanish creativity, and English resilience.

Still, the challenge ahead is immense. Ancelotti exits amid heavy fan criticism following what many are calling a “disastrous” season by Real Madrid standards. The fans now expect Alonso to launch a serious project to restore the club’s dominance both domestically and in Europe, after a season with no major trophies.

The big questions now are: Can Alonso reshape the squad with his philosophy? Will he receive full backing from the board during the transfer market? And will he be able to manage big names like Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, and Thibaut Courtois in the dressing room?

The road ahead won’t be easy — but Alonso’s spectacular work at Leverkusen sends strong signals. He turned a modest club into an unstoppable Bundesliga champion, implementing an attractive attacking style that caught the attention of Europe’s elite.

This official signing with Real Madrid marks a new chapter in the young manager’s career — one that could lead to major tactical, squad, and even administrative changes at the club.

Ultimately, Real Madrid is not a club that waits. Success is measured not by beautiful football, but by silverware — especially the UEFA Champions League, the most prized competition in the club’s storied history.

Will Xabi Alonso rise to the occasion? The answer begins this summer. What’s certain is that Real Madrid is entering a new era — led by a man who knows every inch of the Bernabéu and wears the white shirt in his heart.