Real Madrid have officially announced that Xabi Alonso will become the club’s new head coach, taking over from Carlo Ancelotti at the end of the season. The appointment marks a significant return for Alonso, who enjoyed great success as a player with the Spanish giants. The former midfielder has signed a contract that will keep him at the club for the next three years, and he is set to be unveiled at Real Madrid’s training facility on Monday.

Alonso’s first assignment as manager will come in the FIFA Club World Cup, where Real Madrid will face Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal on June 18. His return to the Santiago Bernabéu is a moment of nostalgia for many fans, as Alonso played a pivotal role in the club’s midfield during his time as a player from 2009 to 2014. He was part of the squad that won the UEFA Champions League in 2014, cementing his legacy as one of the club’s modern greats.

The 43-year-old tactician arrives in Madrid following a remarkable spell in charge of Bayer Leverkusen. Earlier this month, Alonso revealed that he would be leaving the German club at the conclusion of the 2023–24 season. His decision came after an extraordinary campaign in which he led Leverkusen to their first-ever Bundesliga title. Under his leadership, the team went unbeaten throughout the league season, an achievement that earned widespread acclaim across European football.

In addition to securing the Bundesliga trophy, Alonso also guided Leverkusen to victory in the German Cup, completing a domestic double in what was his first full season as a senior team manager. His success at Leverkusen highlighted his tactical acumen, ability to inspire players, and readiness to take on a high-pressure role at a club of Real Madrid’s stature.

Despite the historic season, Leverkusen finished behind Bayern Munich in other competitions, but Alonso’s overall impact on the club’s fortunes has been viewed as transformative. His departure from Leverkusen has left fans and players alike reflecting on a short but highly influential tenure.

Meanwhile, in a related development, former Real Madrid star Toni Kroos has confirmed that he will be returning to the Santiago Bernabéu as well—though not in a coaching capacity. The German midfielder will take part in an upcoming Legends match, reuniting with former teammates and continuing his connection with the club. Kroos, who played a vital role in one of Real Madrid’s most successful eras, remains a beloved figure among supporters and will be welcomed back warmly.

With Alonso at the helm and familiar faces like Kroos continuing to represent the club’s legacy, Real Madrid look set to enter a new chapter that blends their illustrious past with a promising future.