Xabi Alonso leaves Real Madrid after Supercopa defeat to Barcelona with Arbeloa taking over | OneFootball

Real Madrid have announced that head coach Xabi Alonso has left the club with immediate effect.

The Spaniard spent just eight months in charge after taking over in May.

Álvaro Arbeloa has been confirmed as the new head coach, stepping up from Madrid’s reserve side.

Alonso leaves Madrid second in La Liga, four points behind Barcelona, and having lost 3-2 to the Catalan club in the Supercopa de España final in his last game in charge.

“Real Madrid C. F. announces that, by mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to end his time as coach of the first team,” the club said in a statement.

“Xabi Alonso will always have the affection and admiration of all madridismo because he is a Real Madrid legend and has always represented the values of our club. Real Madrid will always be his home.

“Our club thanks Xabi Alonso and his entire technical team for their work and dedication throughout this time, and wishes them the best of luck in this new stage of their lives.”