Xabi Alonso gives his side of the story after being sacked by Real Madrid

Quiet, restrained, and measured — exactly the way he carried himself in his press conferences. 

Xabi Alonso said goodbye to Real Madrid fans with a brief message posted on Instagram: “This professional chapter comes to an end, and it hasn’t turned out the way we hoped. Coaching Real Madrid has been an honor and a responsibility.” He closed with: “I want to thank the club, the players, and especially the fans for their trust and support. I leave with respect, gratitude, and the pride of having done my best.”

No regrets, no bitterness

These were Alonso’s first public words since he was dismissed on Monday afternoon - hours after Real Madrid’s Spanish Super Cup final defeat to Barcelona, sealing what had been rumored for weeks — his departure. The club later issued a statement insisting the decision was “mutual.”

In his message, Alonso emphasized that he leaves with “respect,” avoiding any hint of bitterness. Instead, he thanked the club for the chance to coach the team where he had also made history as a player. He waited until the day after the announcement to share his version of events, offering no resentment or coded messages.

What comes next is still uncertain. Under Spanish federation rules, Alonso cannot coach another LaLiga team this season. He can, however, take over any club abroad — even one competing in the Champions League.

That will surely be music to the ears of many Liverpool fans who are growing impatient with Arne Slot. However, the Anfield way has never been about making rash decisions, or reacting in a way that could plunge the team from the frying pan into the fire. Also, while Xabi has an excellent football brain, he is still relatively inexperienced as a manager.

Alonso exits Real Madrid after 321 days and 34 matches in charge. He started brilliantly, winning his first 10 games, but things unraveled after a 5–2 loss in the derby at the Metropolitano. The situation deteriorated further after the Clásico, when Vinícius reacted visibly to being substituted — a moment widely viewed as a turning point.

Xabi Alonso’s figures compared to other coaches

Across his 34 matches, Alonso recorded 24 wins, 4 draws, and 6 losses. By comparison, Carlo Ancelotti opened his Madrid tenure with a 27‑5‑2 run — the same as Zinedine Zidane — while José Mourinho started 26‑5‑3. All three posted stronger stars than Alonso. Interestingly, Alonso’s numbers mirror Hansi Flick’s early record at Barcelona...