Real Madrid coach change 2026: Real Madrid have confirmed Xabi Alonso has left the club by mutual agreement, and Álvaro Arbeloa has been appointed as the new first-team coach, according to official club statements issued on January 12, 2026.
A day later, Arbeloa took charge of his first training session as preparations began for the Copa del Rey Round of 16 clash against Albacete.
What Real Madrid Officially Announced
In its statement, the club said that “by mutual agreement” it had decided to end Alonso’s spell as first-team coach, and thanked him and his staff.
In a separate official announcement, Real Madrid confirmed Álvaro Arbeloa is the new first-team coach.
Why the Timing Matters
The change came a day after Real Madrid’s 3–2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final, as reported by Reuters.
Who Is Álvaro Arbeloa (Official Record)
Real Madrid’s official note says Arbeloa has coached within the club’s academy structure since 2020, became Castilla coach in June 2025, and won a treble with Juvenil A in 2022–23 plus another league title in 2024–25.
As a player, he represented Real Madrid from 2009 to 2016, making 238 official appearances and winning eight titles, including two European Cups. The club also notes he won the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2008 and 2012 with Spain and earned 56 caps.
What Happens Next: First Session, First Match
Real Madrid’s training update confirms Arbeloa led his first session on January 13 ahead of the Copa del Rey trip to Albacete, with kick-off listed as Wednesday, 9:00 pm CET (Thursday, 1:30 am IST).
Arbeloa on Identity: “I’ll Be Arbeloa”
In his first public remarks after taking over, Arbeloa stressed he won’t try to copy José Mourinho, saying that if he tried to be “Mou,” he would “fail spectacularly.”
Key Highlights
- Real Madrid said Xabi Alonso’s exit was by mutual agreement.
- The club confirmed Álvaro Arbeloa is the new first-team coach.
- Arbeloa has already led training ahead of the Copa del Rey Round of 16 vs Albacete.
FAQ
A1: Yes — the club’s official announcement confirms it.
A2: The club statement says it was by mutual agreement and does not give further reasons.
Disclaimer:
This report is for information only. Match schedules and availability can change—refer to official club updates for the latest.
