The narrative of a “mutual agreement” between Real Madrid and Xabi Alonso is increasingly being challenged in Spain. While the club’s official statement framed the separation as consensual, several Spanish media outlets report that the Basque coach was dismissed against his will.
According to these sources, Alonso only learned of the decision at the very last moment, despite having held discussions with club officials earlier that day. The timing, coming just hours after the Super Cup final defeat in Saudi Arabia, added to the shock. Issues such as transfer strategy, recurring injuries, and strained relationships with certain key players reportedly weighed heavily in Florentino Pérez’s decision.
Before leaving, Xabi Alonso reportedly made his frustrations clear to the club’s hierarchy. Journalist Antón Meana revealed that the coach openly criticized Real Madrid’s internal management, particularly what he saw as excessive power given to players.
Alonso felt unprotected, believing it was impossible to fully control the dressing room when the club systematically sided with players rather than the coach, even on sporting matters. Close associates claim he left for the winter break convinced the situation could improve and that the team showed promising signs in late December. However, lingering doubts from the club’s leadership ultimately sealed his fate, leaving the football world waiting for Alonso’s own public version of events.