Real Madrid have confirmed that Xabi Alonso has been sacked as head coach after just one season in the job. The decision comes after Sunday's defeat to Barcelona in the Supercopa final.
In a statement, the club said the parties had agreed to end the partnership and thanked Alonso for his efforts. It also confirmed that former Madrid player Álvaro Arbeloa would be promoted from the reserve team and take over responsibility.
The results did not withstand the pressure
Alonso took over in the summer on a three-year deal, but a weak spell in November and December – with just three wins in nine games – created mounting pressure, with the club unhappy with both results and the team's performance.
There were also reportedly concerns about the relationship between the coach and parts of the dressing room, which contributed to the decision.
A short path from trust to separation
Despite public support from figures such as Jude Bellingham and Thibaut Courtois, the Madrid management chose to pull the emergency brake. At Real Madrid, it is ultimately results that count – and patience is short.
