Xabi Alonso thanks Real Madrid after exit, says he leaves with respect and gratitude

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·14 January 2026

Xabi Alonso thanks Real Madrid after exit, says he leaves with respect and gratitude

Xabi Alonso has addressed his exit from Real Madrid in an Instagram message after being dismissed as head coach on Monday.

He spent seven months in charge, with the decision following a 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Super Cup final. In the post, Alonso said this chapter had ended and had not unfolded as they wished.

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The message described managing Real Madrid as an honour and a responsibility.

It thanked the club, the players and, above all, the supporters and madridismo for their trust and support.

It concluded that he leaves with respect and gratitude, and with the pride of having done his best. He has been replaced by his former team-mate Alvaro Arbeloa.

Source: L'Équipe