Xabi Alonso's Departure as Real Madrid Manager: Key Reasons for His Exit

Real Madrid has parted ways with manager Xabi Alonso after a challenging spell, culminating in a disappointing defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final. Alonso's tenure, lasting just seven and a half months, was marked by inconsistency and unmet expectations, leading to a conclusion that was, although described as a "mutual agreement," largely anticipated.

The club's decision to dismiss Alonso was influenced by a series of tactical disagreements and a failure to implement the style of play that had made him successful at Bayer Leverkusen. Despite having a reasonable league standing and progressing in cup competitions, the performances did not match the club's historic standards, igniting criticism from both fans and the board.

Injury struggles plagued the squad, with key defenders unavailable and inconsistent performances from several players contributing to a sense of fragility within the team. The situation was exacerbated by the perception that Alonso lacked the authority and backing needed to steer the club away from its current issues.

Looking forward, Real Madrid is expected to appoint Álvaro Arbeloa, noted for his understanding of the club's culture. However, Alonso’s departure illustrates the persistent challenges the club faces in balancing tradition with modern football demands, as they evaluate their path forward in pursuit of success.