Real Madrid are ushering in a bold new era as club legend, Xabi Alonso has officially been named the next manager of Los Blancos, replacing Carlo Ancelotti at the helm.
In a bombshell update confirmed by transfer news reporter, Fabrizio Romano, Alonso has signed a three-year contract until 2028.
After weeks of speculation and emotional farewells, it’s now official: Alonso is coming home.
Goodbye Maestro: Ancelotti’s Exit Nearing Official Announcement
With Ancelotti now confirmed to take over the Brazilian national team, Real Madrid have moved swiftly to secure his successor.
Ancelotti’s departure is expected to be formally announced in the coming days, potentially before the La Liga season concludes.
The Italian tactician will lead Madrid through the final matchday on May 25.
From BayArena to Bernabéu: Alonso’s Farewell to Leverkusen
Alonso’s appointment comes hot on the heels of his emotional farewell to Bayer Leverkusen, whom he led to a historic Bundesliga title and German Cup during a transformative three-year spell.
In his final home game — a 4-2 defeat to Borussia Dortmund — Alonso was visibly emotional as he waved goodbye to the BayArena faithful.
Young Visionary: Alonso’s Meteoric Rise as a Manager
At 43, Alonso is still in the early chapters of his managerial journey, but his rapid rise has caught global attention.
Fabrizio Romano confirmed that all details of the deal — including his backroom staff — have been finalized, with Alonso set to begin his tenure in time for the FIFA Club World Cup next month.
Key Highlights:
Contract Duration: Alonso has signed until 2028.
Timing: He will officially take over after Real Madrid’s final La Liga game on May 25, having coached his last game for Bayer Leverkusen on May 17.
Ancelotti’s Future: The Italian tactician is widely expected to take over the Brazilian national team, with an announcement imminent.
Alonso’s Legacy at Leverkusen:
In his three years at Leverkusen, Alonso:
Delivered a Bundesliga title and a German Cup.
Reached a UEFA Europa League final.
Finished second in the Bundesliga this season.
Built a reputation for tactical innovation and developing young talents like Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong.
In his emotional farewell at BayArena, Alonso reflected on his growth, calling his Leverkusen experience “very special,” despite a 4–2 home defeat to Borussia Dortmund in his final home game.
Real Madrid are now preparing for a new era under a manager regarded as one of the most promising tacticians in Europe — and a club legend to boot.
What’s Next for Real Madrid?
Alonso will inherit a squad brimming with talent, including Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Aurélien Tchouaméni, and will be expected to blend Madrid’s attacking flair with his tactical discipline.