Following their loss to Barcelona, the reports suggested that things were normal, and as Xabi himself had said, they were looking to start winning again, but it was announced om Monday night, out of the blue, there has been a "mutual" end to the terms. So, what really happened?
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the footballing world, Real Madrid officially announced on Monday that they have parted ways with head coach Xabi Alonso "by mutual agreement."
According to Spanish outlet, Cadena SER, Xabi Alonso, in the meeting, bought up his major concerns following the recent run of media speculation and increasing pressure. He said, ""You can't give the players this much power. It's impossible for a coach to rule in a dressing room if the club is always taking the players' side."
According to insiders, the rift between Alonso and the board had been growing for months. Several key issues contributed to the manager’s exit:
Locker room friction: Reports of a public spat with Vinícius Júnior over substitutions and a perceived lack of authority over stars like Kylian Mbappé undermined his leadership.
Injury crisis: Alonso was forced to navigate the season without four key defenders, including Trent Alexander-Arnold and Éder Militão, which saw midfielders like Aurelien Tchouaméni drafted into an auxiliary backline.
The "Galactico" factor: Analysts noted that Alonso lacked the "warmth" of his predecessor, Carlo Ancelotti, often appearing too tactical and distant; a "professor" in a room full of "Galácticos."
The relationship with President Florentino Perez wasn't all that great, according to Matteo Moretto, of Relevo football. Florentino Perez apparently, didn't like Xabi Alonso's playing style or his training sessions.
There is a clear difference between listening to players, embracing change, and granting them freedom, and crossing the line into losing authority, credibility, and acting out of apprehension. Alonso was forced into the latter.
In the end, even accounting for the factors largely beyond his control, this was never meant to be an equitable job. Managing Real Madrid is unforgiving and demands resilience. Fairness is beside the point, as only, and only, results matter. And over these six months, Xabi Alonso simply failed to deliver enough victories.
