Real Madrid have officially announced Xabi Alonso as their new manager, with the Spanish legend signing a three-year deal to replace Carlo Ancelotti. The 43-year-old returns to the Bernabéu after transforming Bayer Leverkusen into Bundesliga champions. With Ancelotti departing for Brazil, Alonso faces immediate pressure to restore Madrid's dominance after a trophyless season. His first test? The Club World Cup in June.
- Homecoming: Alonso returns to Madrid, where he won 6 trophies as a player (2009-2014)
- Immediate Challenge: Must fix defensive frailties (14 losses this season vs 2 last campaign)
- Mbappe Puzzle: How to integrate the French star without disrupting Vinicius Jr’s form
- First Test: Club World Cup opener vs Al-Hilal on June 18 in Miami
- Transfer Plans: Already signed Huijsen; targeting Trent Alexander-Arnold on a free transfer
For a club that measures success in Champions League titles, Alonso’s midfield mastery as a player must now translate to the dugout.
"Can Xabi Alonso succeed where even Ancelotti struggled this season?"
