Real Madrid part ways with head coach Xabi Alonso

Real Madrid have parted ways with head coach Xabi Alonso, following the club’s 3-2 loss in the Spanish Super Cup against arch-rivals Barcelona on Sunday.

The Spanish manager departs by mutual agreement just seven months after being appointed as a replacement for Carlo Ancelotti.

Alonso had been under intense pressure for several weeks due to disappointing performances and a falling out with sections of the dressing room, particularly Vinicius Jr.

Although there were recent signs that the two had resolved their differences, there was still tension and unease about the coach’s connection with some of his players.

Alonso, who made 236 appearances for Los Blancos as a player, has left the club this evening “by mutual agreement,” the club said:

They have immediately announced the appointment of legend Álvaro Arbeloa as the new head coach for the La Liga side.

“Real Madrid CF announces that, by mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to end his time as first team coach,” an official statement from the club read.

“Xabi Alonso will always have the affection and admiration of all Madrid fans because he is a Real Madrid legend and has always represented the values of our club. Real Madrid will always be his home.

“Our club thanks Xabi Alonso and his entire technical team for their work and dedication during this time, and wishes them the best of luck in this new stage of their lives.”

Alonso leaves Santiago Bernabeu after less than a year in charge, having initially joined from Bayer Leverkusen ahead of the Club World Cup in the summer. He won 24 of his 34 games in charge, drawing four and losing six.