Xabi Alonso has officially been unveiled as Real Madrid’s new manager, marking a return to the Santiago Bernabéu after over a decade away, promising to build “something fans can be proud of”.
The 42-year-old has signed a three-year contract and succeeds Carlo Ancelotti, who departs after a trophy-laden spell.
Speaking during his presentation on Monday, Alonso described his appointment as “a special day” and expressed deep gratitude to club president Florentino Pérez and his predecessor Ancelotti.
“I feel like I’m coming home. The bond with Real Madrid never broke,” Alonso said. “Since walking into Valdebebas today, that feeling has been reborn.”
Pérez praised Alonso’s evolution from a world-class midfielder to an elite-level coach, citing his historic treble-winning campaign at Bayer Leverkusen as evidence of his readiness to take on one of the game’s most demanding jobs.
“You now face one of the greatest challenges of your life,” Pérez said. “You know these fans love and admire you, and I’m sure together we’ll share great joy again.”
Alonso acknowledged the significance of the task ahead and made a point of crediting Ancelotti for shaping his managerial philosophy.
“Without Ancelotti, I wouldn’t be here. I learned so much from him, how to manage a team, how to lead with calm and class. I take over his legacy with great honour,” he said.
Alonso also addressed supporters directly, promising a brand of football that blends results with passion.
“We want to build something fans can be proud of. A team that brings joy, emotion, and conviction. If we can light that spark, we’ll be unstoppable.”
