The “mutual agreement” announced on January 12, 2026, to terminate Xabi Alonso’s contract has proven to be one of the most expensive managerial exits in football history.
Despite spending only six months on the bench, the Basque coach is leaving with a massive financial settlement after refusing to “haggle” over a single euro.
Real Madrid: A Total Breakdown in Authority and Finance
Real Madrid has decided to respect the full terms of the contract signed less than a year ago. Because Alonso was under contract for three years, the total cost to Florentino Pérez has skyrocketed:
- Contract Buyout: Alonso demanded his full salary for the current season (€18M gross) plus the two remaining years (€36M gross), totaling €54M.
- Initial Transfer Fee: Real Madrid had already paid €15M to Bayer Leverkusen to release him from his previous contract.
- Total Investment: The club has spent nearly €70M gross for a tenure that lasted just over six months.
Internal Conflicts: Why Florentino Paid the Price
While the dismissal was framed as a “mutual agreement,” it was the result of a complete breakdown in the relationship between the coach and the board.
Loss of Authority and the “Mbappé Clash”
The final trigger occurred following the Super Cup defeat. Alonso ordered the squad to perform a guard of honor for the winners—a gesture intended to show sportsmanship. However, Kylian Mbappé publicly overruled the coach, leading the players off the pitch. Florentino Pérez viewed this as an “unforgivable” sign that Alonso had lost control of the locker room.
Lack of Institutional Alignment
The board was frustrated by Alonso’s refusal to follow the club’s aggressive media strategy. Specifically:
- He chose a “lukewarm and conciliatory” response to a verbal clash with Pep Guardiola, whereas the club wanted a forceful, Mourinho-style defense.
- He expressed private disagreement with the editorial line of Real Madrid TV and guidelines regarding refereeing.
The Successor: Álvaro Arbeloa Takes Charge
With Alonso’s exit finalized, Real Madrid has officially appointed Álvaro Arbeloa (42) as the new head coach. Arbeloa is set to debut at Valdebebas tomorrow, stepping into a high-pressure environment as the club looks to salvage their season. Meanwhile, Jurgen Klopp remains the ultimate target for the summer, with rumors suggesting he may request the sale of Vinícius Júnior upon his arrival.
