Alonso ready to lead a 'new era' at Real Madrid

Xabi Alonso is convinced he can achieve great things at Real Madrid after he was unveiled as the new manager of the LaLiga club on Monday. 

Alonso was confirmed as Carlo Ancelotti's replacement, who will join the Brazil national team, on Sunday and returns to the club he spent six seasons with as a player. 

The 43-year-old arrives in the Spanish capital from Bayer Leverkusen, who he guided to a domestic double as they won the DFB-Pokal and first Bundesliga title last year.

Alonso arrives with great pedigree, winning 89 of his 140 games in charge of Leverkusen across all competitions (D32 L19) and wants to continue that success in Madrid.

"Without a doubt, this is a very special day for me. A day that I will have marked in my calendar for life," said Alonso, who will begin his tenure on June 1. 

"I am very happy to be here, in what I feel is my home," said Alonso, who will begin his tenure on June 1 ahead of the Club World Cup.

"The bond with Madrid has never ceased to exist and, since I entered Valdebebas (training centre) an hour and a half ago, that feeling has been reborn.

"I have the feeling that this is the beginning of a new era. We have a great team, we have fantastic players and a very good potential.

"That gives me a reason to come here with a lot of energy and enthusiasm. We have the conviction that we can achieve important things, worthy of Real Madrid and these European Cups."

Alonso takes charge of a Madrid side who endured a rare trophyless season, finishing second in LaLiga to rivals Barcelona. 

They were also beaten in the Supercopa de Espana and Copa del Rey final by Barca, and were knocked out in the Champions League semi-finals by Arsenal.

Alonso has put pen to paper on a three-year contract until June 2028, replacing Ancelotti, who oversaw a 2-0 win over Real Sociedad in his final game in charge on Saturday.

In his address at the presentation, the Spaniard paid tribute to his predecessor and former coach.

"Before I start talking about the new era, I don't want to forget to talk about the era that has just ended," Alonso said.

"Carlo was my coach, a great person and a huge influence. Without his mastery, I probably wouldn't be here.

"I take over and carry on his legacy with great honour and pride. I hope to live up to expectations and be able to take the club to all the places we all believe we can."