Xabi Alonso Shares Big Plans For Real Madrid

Xabi Alonso has shared his big plans for Real Madrid just a day after becoming the new head coach. The 43-year-old Spaniard wants to create a team identity that fans can call “my Real Madrid.”

WHAT HAPPENED?

Alonso, in his first public talk since joining, said: “I want to build a great team, we’ve top players. We can achieve great things. I want people to say: this is my Real Madrid, when they watch us.” The former midfielder played 236 games for Madrid between 2009 and 2014. He has signed a three-year contract until 2028. He replaces Carlo Ancelotti, who left after a trophyless 2024-25 season.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Alonso arrives at Madrid with high coaching credentials, having turned Bayer Leverkusen from relegation candidates into Bundesliga champions. He took over the German club in October 2022, and they were fighting to avoid relegation. Just 18 months later, he led them to an unbeaten domestic double in 2024, narrowly missing out on a treble after losing to Atalanta in the Europa League final. His remarkable success in Germany has established him as one of the most promising young coaches in world football, making him Madrid’s preferred long-term target to replace Ancelotti.

WHAT NEXT FOR REAL MADRID?

Alonso’s first challenge will be the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States next month, which will serve as preparation for the 2025-26 season. The new coach inherits a squad that underperformed last season, finishing behind Barcelona in both LaLiga and the Copa del Rey while also exiting the Champions League at the quarterfinal stage. With his experience as both a Madrid player and academy coach, Alonso will be expected to return the club to winning ways immediately. His statement about creating a recognizable playing style suggests fans can expect a distinctive tactical approach from the team when the new season begins in August.