A new era has begun at Real Madrid with Xabi Alonso laying down ambitious foundations over his plans at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu.
Los Blancos have moved swiftly following a disappointing 2024/25 season, which included failing to defend their La Liga and the UEFA Champions League titles.
Barcelona completed a La Liga, Copa del Rey and Spanish Supercup treble and won all four of their El Clasico meetings with Carlo Ancelotti’s side including final victories in the latter two competitions.
Club president Florentino Perez has opted for a clean sweep in Madrid, with Ancelotti moving on to take charge of the Brazil national side, and club captain Luka Modric departing after this summer’s FIFA Club World Cup.
Alonso has slotted in as Ancelotti’s instant replacement, with the former Spain international backed to revive the club, and lead a challenge to Barcelona in 2025/26.
Alonso sealed Bayer Leverkusen’s first-ever Bundesliga title in 2024, but his team lost out to Bayern Munich this season, before he opted to accept Real Madrid’s return offer.
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The 43-year-old made over 200 appearances for Real Madrid as a player, from 2009 to 2014, winning a title in La Liga and the UCL.
He admitted the task ahead will be difficult, but he’s confident over his ability to get things back on track, with fan support vital to his project.
Xabi Alonso’s first words as Real Madrid boss
Alonso has signed a three-year contract back in Madrid, tying him to the club until the end of the 2027/28 season, and he acknowledge the pressure for immediate improvement.
“We have a fantastic team and a bright future. I’m excited to build a great team, with the conviction we can achieve things worthy of Real Madrid. I want the fans to be proud,” he told Real Madrid’s official channels.
“I want us to spread joy. I want the fans here and around the world, watching on TV, to say this is the team I like. I want the team to transmit joy.
“I want people to go to the stadium to enjoy themselves. If we can ignite that, we’ll have an unstoppable team.”
Alonso’s final comment will be a rallying call to Real Madrid fans across the world as they prepare for the Club World Cup in June.
Real Madrid have been drawn in Group H alongside Pachuca, RB Salzburg and Al Hilal – with their campaign kicking off against the latter on June 18 in Miami.
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