New Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso said on Monday that he has the drive and enthusiasm to achieve victory worthy of the Spanish giants as he was officially introduced as Carlo Ancelotti’s successor.
Alonso, who signed a three-year contract until June 2028, will lead the team to the Club World Cup this summer after Ancelotti left to manage the Brazil national side.
Madrid had a trophy-less season, dropping the La Liga title to rivals Barcelona, who also beat them in the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup final.
The club’s European dreams were also shattered after a crushing Champions League quarter-final loss to Arsenal.
“We have fantastic players and a team brimming with potential, capable of both a strong present and a promising future,” Alonso said at Real Madrid’s training ground.
“That gives me every reason to come here full of energy and hope, aiming to bring out the best in every player and build a great team.
“I am convinced that we can achieve great things, worthy of Real Madrid and all the European Cups and accomplishments amassed over so many years.”
Alonso, a technically accomplished central midfielder throughout his playing career, made 236 appearances for Madrid from 2009 to 2014, collecting six championships, including the Champions League in his final season.
That victory was Madrid’s tenth European Cup (La Décima), and the club has since added five more for a record 15 Champions League victories.
The 43-year-old coach guided Bayer Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga and German Cup double in 2023-24, drawing interest from Europe’s top teams.
Alonso, who has been tutored by legendary managers such as Ancelotti, Pep Guardiola, and José Mourinho, hailed the day as “special”.
“It’s a day I will mark in my calendar for life,” he said.
“Though I have been away for a few years, my connection with Madrid and the fans has never faded.
“When I arrived at Valdebebas an hour and a half ago, it felt like a rebirth. I have the sense this is the start of a new era, as the president said.”
Florentino Pérez, president of Real Madrid, welcomed Alonso back to the Spanish capital with an introductory address.
“This is a very special day for all who love Real Madrid. It marks the beginning of a new era filled with excitement and deep emotions,” Pérez said.
“A coach has arrived who is among the best in the world and who understands what this badge and shirt represent.
“Today, we welcome one of our own — Xabi Alonso. Welcome back home, Real Madrid.”
Alonso, who won the 2010 World Cup and two European Championships with Spain, started coaching after retiring from playing.
Real Madrid’s Club World Cup campaign begins on June 18 against Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal in Miami, providing the first sight of Alonso’s concept.
