Xabi Alonso Returns to Real Madrid as Head Coach
Former Star Player Vows to Restore Club’s Winning Ways After Trophyless Season
Real Madrid have officially welcomed back their former midfield star, Xabi Alonso, as the new head coach. The Spanish legend was presented to the media on Monday at the club’s training centre in Madrid after signing a three-year contract that will keep him at the club until June 2028.
Alonso is taking over after a disappointing season for Real Madrid, where the team failed to win any major trophy. They lost the La Liga title to Barcelona, who also beat them in the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup finals. In the Champions League, Real Madrid were knocked out in the quarter-finals by Arsenal.
Speaking at his unveiling, Alonso said he is ready for the challenge. He said,
“We have fantastic players and a team with a lot of potential. I am coming with energy and hope to get the best out of everyone and build a great team.” He added, “We can achieve big things, worthy of Real Madrid, worthy of all these European Cups, of all these accomplishments made over so many years.”
For Alonso, this is more than just a coaching job—it is a return home. During his playing days, he made 236 appearances for Real Madrid and won six trophies, including the famous “La Decima”—the club’s 10th Champions League title. Since then, Real Madrid have added five more Champions League trophies, making them the most successful club in Europe.
Alonso said,
“It’s a day I will have marked in my calendar for life. The link with Madrid and the fans has never ended, it’s always been there. And today, when I walked into Valdebebas, it was reborn… I have the feeling that it’s the start of an era, as the president said.”
Alonso’s journey from player to coach has been impressive. He recently led Bayer Leverkusen to an unbeaten season in the Bundesliga and won the German Cup. His success in Germany made him one of the most sought-after young coaches in Europe. He has also learned from top coaches like Carlo Ancelotti, Pep Guardiola, and Jose Mourinho.
Real Madrid president, Florentino Perez, welcomed Alonso warmly, saying, “This is a very special day for those who love Real Madrid. It will be the start of a new era filled with excitement and intense emotions. Today we welcome one of our own — Xabi Alonso. Welcome back to your home, Real Madrid.”
Alonso’s first big test as coach will be at the FIFA Club World Cup in Miami, where Real Madrid will play against Al-Hilal of Saudi Arabia on June 18. Fans in Nigeria and around the world are hopeful that Alonso can bring back the glory days and lead the team to more trophies.
With his passion, experience, and strong connection to the club, many believe Alonso is the right man to restore Real Madrid’s pride.
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