Real Madrid appoints Sergio Arbeloa as new head coach following Jose Mourinho departure

Real Madrid Announces Departure of Head Coach Xabi Alonso

Real Madrid has announced that head coach Xabi Alonso is leaving his position “by mutual consent”. The news comes a day after the team’s loss to Barcelona in the Supercopa de Espana final. Alonso, 44, had been with the club for less than a year, having signed a three-year contract last summer.

Alonso will be replaced by Alvaro Arbeloa, who has been promoted from his role as coach of the reserve team Castilla. The decision was made after mutual agreement between the club and Alonso.

In a statement, Real Madrid expressed their gratitude to Alonso and his coaching staff for their work and dedication. The club also acknowledged Alonso’s status as a “Real Madrid legend” and wished him well in his future endeavors.

Alonso had previously led the team to 10 of its first 11 La Liga games, but faced challenges with player discontent and reported disconnects with some players. Despite this, the team has remained competitive in the UEFA Champions League, with four wins in six games under Alonso’s leadership.

Arbeloa, a former right-back who played for Real Madrid from 2009 to 2016, will take over as head coach.

Source: Al Jazeera