Real Madrid have officially confirmed the end of an era, parting ways with veteran manager Carlo Ancelotti ahead of his contract expiry. Without wasting any time, the Spanish giants have announced former midfield maestro Xabi Alonso as their new head coach, with a long-term contract keeping him at the Santiago Bernabeu until June 2028.
Real Madrid End Ancelotti’s Contract Early Following Disappointing Season
Ancelotti, who was initially contracted to stay until June 2026, saw his tenure cut short after a highly underwhelming 2024/2025 campaign. The Italian tactician, who has led Real Madrid to numerous titles in his two spells at the club, found his magic touch missing this season as Los Blancos struggled to keep pace both domestically and in Europe.
Madrid’s 2024/2025 season has been deemed a failure by the club’s high standards. Their exit from both the Copa del Rey and the UEFA Champions League, coupled with a faltering La Liga campaign where fierce rivals Barcelona are poised to reclaim the title, triggered the decision for change in the coaching staff.
The early termination of Ancelotti’s contract marks a significant turning point as the club seeks a fresh direction. And the chosen successor, as widely speculated for months, is none other than club legend Xabi Alonso.
Xabi Alonso to Begin New Chapter with Real Madrid from June 2025
The appointment of Alonso comes as little surprise to fans and football insiders alike. The former Real Madrid, Liverpool, and Bayern Munich midfielder had long been touted as the prime candidate to step into the Bernabeu hot seat.
According to renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano, Alonso has reached a full agreement with the club. His contract, which runs until June 2028, is already signed and sealed. The Spaniard will formally assume managerial duties starting June 1, 2025, with the initial focus on preparing the team for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, marking his first major challenge at the helm of Real Madrid.
“Real Madrid have everything in place for Xabi Alonso and his coaching staff to begin their new journey starting from June 1,” Romano reported. “Their first mission will be preparing the squad for the Club World Cup, as the club begins a new chapter under Alonso’s leadership.”
Alonso, currently enjoying success in his managerial career with Bayer Leverkusen, is seen as the ideal figure to usher in a new tactical era at Real Madrid. His understanding of the club’s culture, combined with his modern football philosophy, is expected to bring a renewed identity to the team.
Carlo Ancelotti Set for New Adventure as Brazil National Team Coach
While Real Madrid turn the page with Alonso, Carlo Ancelotti has also swiftly mapped out his next career move. The 65-year-old Italian has accepted the prestigious role of Brazil national team head coach, a position he had been linked with for several months.
According to Romano, Ancelotti will receive a special farewell from the club, acknowledging his contributions before the official transition to Alonso takes place.
“Carlo Ancelotti will bid farewell to Real Madrid in a special ceremony, as his departure process is set to commence this week,” Romano added. “After that, the Xabi Alonso era will officially begin.”
Ancelotti’s move to manage Brazil marks a historic moment, as he becomes the first European manager to lead the Seleção since the 1960s. His wealth of experience at the highest level will now be focused on guiding the Brazilian squad toward glory in upcoming major tournaments.
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