‎Xabi Alonso appointed Real Madrid manager: Everything you need to know

By: Shawn
‎Xabi Alonso, one of football’s most respected minds, has officially been named the new manager of Real Madrid. The deal is signed and sealed: a three-year contract until 2028. Alonso is expected to take charge ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup, ushering in a new era following the impending farewell of Carlo Ancelotti.
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‎'Xabi Alonso.'
‎Getty Images 
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‎This marks a full-circle moment for the former midfield maestro, whose deep ties to Real Madrid as a player have now evolved into a leadership role on the touchline.
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‎A Playing Career Rooted in Excellence
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‎Born in Tolosa, Spain, in 1981, Xabi Alonso rose from Real Sociedad to the pinnacle of European football. His move to Liverpool in 2004 saw him become a key architect of the club’s miraculous 2005 Champions League victory. Later, at Real Madrid, he became a strategic linchpin, winning La Liga and the Copa del Rey. He concluded his playing days with Bayern Munich, capturing multiple Bundesliga titles under Pep Guardiola.
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‎Spain’s Midfield General
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‎Alonso’s national career was equally glittering, amassing 114 caps and playing a vital role in Spain’s golden generation. He was instrumental in their back-to-back triumphs at Euro 2008 and 2012, and the 2010 World Cup victory, solidifying his status as one of the game's most intelligent operators.
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‎Managerial Rise and Leverkusen Legacy
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‎Transitioning into coaching, Alonso began with Real Madrid’s youth squads, then led Real Sociedad B to the Segunda División. In 2022, he took over at Bayer Leverkusen, transforming the club into Bundesliga champions with an unbeaten 2023–24 season and reaching the Europa League final.
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‎His emphasis on tactical clarity, youth development, and dynamic play made him one of Europe’s most coveted young managers.
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‎The Xabi Era Begins at Real Madrid
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‎Now, with his coaching staff finalized and contract signed, Alonso prepares to lead Real Madrid into a new chapter. The club plans for him to debut as manager at the FIFA Club World Cup. His arrival signals not just a change in leadership, but a generational shift—bringing tactical innovation rooted in his rich playing legacy.
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‎Carlo Ancelotti's emotional farewell will soon make way for the Xabi era. Real Madrid’s faithful can now look forward to a future guided by one of their own, whose vision for modern football is as clear as his passes once were.

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