Xabi Alonso has been dismissed as Real Madrid manager after the team’s loss to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final.
Alonso, who took over from Carlo Ancelotti this summer, leaves Real Madrid four points behind their rivals in La Liga.
Currently, Los Blancos sit seventh in the Champions League table, positioned to advance to the knockout rounds. However, Raphinha’s late goal in Saudi Arabia solidified concerns over Alonso’s future, which had been precarious for several weeks.
There have been persistent reports of discontent within the Real Madrid squad this season, which may have played a role in Alonso’s exit, just eight months into a three-year contract.
Fernando Alonso Comments on Xabi’s Appointment
Fernando Alonso, a renowned fan of Real Madrid and a two-time Formula 1 champion, expressed that Xabi Alonso was exactly what the club needed.
He praised Ancelotti as Real Madrid’s “greatest manager,” noting his achievements, including two league titles and three Champions League victories during his two terms at the club.
“With [Carlo] Ancelotti, he is the greatest manager we have had in terms of trophies, and he will be missed, but I’m excited to see how we do now with Xabi Alonso as manager,” he shared.
“This marks a new era for Real Madrid, with new players joining like Trent Alexander-Arnold. Sports and life evolve. What has happened in the past changes rapidly. The heroes I admired growing up are no longer here, and it’s similar in Formula 1; drivers come and go. It’s natural.”
In another interview with DAZN, Alonso noted that Xabi Alonso had all the qualities needed to succeed as a coach. He has now been succeeded by Alvaro Arbeloa, another former player of the club.
“Xabi was a smart player, always tactically aware,” Alonso explained. “As a coach, he combines that knowledge with a calm demeanor and solid communication skills, which is essential at a club like Real Madrid, where pressure is constant.”
Other F1 Drivers Who Support Real Madrid
Fernando Alonso was named an honorary member of Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu in 2017, a title he shares with tennis star Rafael Nadal.
“It was special because it makes you feel valued by a club you admire,” he stated about the honor. “Walking onto the pitch was magical for me, and I was genuinely honored.”
Alonso grew up idolizing many Real Madrid players and called his experience of stepping onto the pitch a day he would remember forever.
Besides Alonso, other current F1 drivers also support Real Madrid. Carlos Sainz, who was raised in Madrid, has family ties to the club, while Mercedes driver George Russell has fond memories of supporting Real Madrid in his childhood, although he primarily roots for Premier League team Wolves.
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