Barca Defeat Triggers Real Upheaval — Alonso’s Departure: End of an Era or New Disaster?

Real Madrid has announced the departure of manager Xabi Alonso by "mutual consent," less than a day after the team's 3-2 Spanish Super Cup final loss to Barcelona in Jeddah. The club issued a statement thanking Alonso, a Real Madrid legend, for his work and dedication, and emphasized he will always have the affection of the fans.

The decision follows a period of speculation about Alonso's future, fueled by a poor run of form that has seen Madrid fall four points behind Barcelona in La Liga and struggle in the Champions League. Reports had suggested dressing room unrest and that players were not fully buying into his methods. Star forward Kylian Mbappé publicly wished Alonso well following the announcement.

Immediately after Alonso's departure was confirmed, Real Madrid announced Alvaro Arbeloa as the new first-team coach. Arbeloa, a former Madrid player with 238 appearances and eight titles for the club, has been coaching within the Real Madrid youth academy since 2020, most recently leading the Castilla (B) team. His successful tenure included winning a treble with the Juvenil A side in the 2022-2023 season.

The change comes at a busy time for the club, with six matches scheduled in just over two weeks, including Copa del Rey, Champions League, and La Liga fixtures. Their first game under Arbeloa is an away Copa del Rey last-16 tie against Albacete.

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