End of an Era: Xabi Alonso Dismissed by Real Madrid Following Trent Alexander-Arnold Prediction

MADRID — In a move that has sent shockwaves through the footballing world, Real Madrid has officially parted ways with head coach Xabi Alonso. The decision, announced on Monday, January 12, 2026, comes just seven months into what was expected to be a long-term project for the legendary former midfielder at the Santiago Bernabéu.

The dismissal follows a 3-2 defeat to arch-rivals Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final held in Saudi Arabia, a loss that proved to be the final straw for President Florentino Pérez.

The Trent Prediction: Alonso’s Final Defense

Just days before his departure, Alonso made headlines with a firm defense of his marquee summer signing, Trent Alexander-Arnold. The former Liverpool fullback, who joined Los Blancos on a free transfer just months prior, has struggled with injuries and a perceived "adaptation period" to the tactical demands of La Liga.

"I think we will see a better Trent," Alonso had predicted in one of his final press conferences. "Without doubt, it’s positive that after the injury he could do 90 minutes. We need him. It’s his first year and it’s normal to have this adaptation period. He is starting to feel like himself."

Ironically, Alonso’s faith in the Englishman may have highlighted a growing divide between the manager and the club’s hierarchy. While Alonso preached patience, reports suggest that senior figures at the club—and his immediate successor, Álvaro Arbeloa—harbor concerns about Alexander-Arnold’s defensive suitability for the Spanish giants.

Internal Discord and the "Guard of Honor"

The cracks in Alonso’s tenure were not limited to the pitch. Rumors of a fractured locker room surfaced late last year, with superstars like Vinícius Júnior reportedly unhappy with being substituted.

However, the most visual sign of the breakdown occurred during the Super Cup trophy ceremony in Jeddah. Alonso reportedly instructed his players to perform a guard of honor for the victorious Barcelona side—a traditional show of respect. The gesture was allegedly rejected by several key players, led by Kylian Mbappé, who walked away from the pitch, leaving the manager standing alone.

A Turbulent Statistics Sheet

On paper, Alonso’s record wasn't disastrous. In 34 matches, he secured 24 wins, 4 draws, and 6 losses. However, the nature of the defeats—including heavy losses to Atlético Madrid and PSG, and a collapse in the domestic league that saw a five-point lead over Barcelona turn into a four-point deficit—led to an untenable situation.

What’s Next for Alonso and Real Madrid?

Real Madrid moved with lightning speed to replace the Basque manager, promoting B-team coach and fellow club legend Álvaro Arbeloa to the first-team post.

As for Xabi Alonso, the "King of Leverkusen" remains one of the most sought-after tacticians in Europe. Despite the "brutal" nature of his exit, he issued a statement expressing his pride:

"This professional stage is over, and it didn't go as we would have liked. Coaching Real Madrid has been an honour and a responsibility. I leave with respect, gratitude, and pride that I did my best."

With the Liverpool job currently held by Arne Slot, and Pep Guardiola’s future at Manchester City frequently under speculation, Alonso is unlikely to remain on the unemployment line for long. Meanwhile, at the Bernabéu, the focus shifts to whether Arbeloa can fix the "squad problem" that ultimately claimed the job of one of the game's brightest minds.