{"id":10039,"date":"2026-01-13T10:15:48","date_gmt":"2026-01-13T07:15:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/?p=10039"},"modified":"2026-01-13T10:15:49","modified_gmt":"2026-01-13T07:15:49","slug":"real-madrid-part-ways-with-xabi-alonso-after-super-cup-loss-as-arbeloa-takes-over","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/real-madrid-part-ways-with-xabi-alonso-after-super-cup-loss-as-arbeloa-takes-over\/","title":{"rendered":"Real Madrid Part Ways with Xabi Alonso After Super Cup Loss as Arbeloa Takes Over"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.realmadrid.com\/es-ES\/noticias\/club\/comunicados\/comunicado-oficial-xabi-alonso-12-01-2026\"><strong>Real Madrid<\/strong> have officially parted ways with head coach <strong>Xabi Alonso<\/strong><\/a> following their defeat in the<a href=\"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/raphinhas-brace-seals-barcelonas-3-2-supercopa-triumph-over-real-madrid\/\"> Spanish Super Cup<\/a>, bringing an abrupt end to a short but intense managerial spell at the Santiago Bernab\u00e9u.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Alonso, who was appointed in May 2025 after the departure of <strong>Carlo Ancelotti<\/strong>, leaves after just eight months in charge, amid growing pressure from mixed domestic results, internal tensions, and a highly scrutinized post-match incident involving star forward <strong>Kylian Mbapp\u00e9<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A Short Reign Marked by Promise and Pressure<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite the sudden nature of his exit, Alonso\u2019s tenure was not without merit. The former midfield maestro recorded <strong>24 wins from 34 matches<\/strong>, maintaining competitive form across all competitions. However, Real Madrid\u2019s inconsistent run in <strong>La Liga<\/strong>, coupled with tactical disagreements behind the scenes, gradually eroded confidence in his project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/img.asmedia.epimg.net\/resizer\/v2\/2USUZTBQRBAHLGELLV55G2C3KY.JPG?auth=8ec9d479749bf6fd70c67b2842eaeb50facaab848f158eb5ddda917b584bd4e7&amp;focal=899%2C273&amp;height=1200&amp;width=1200\" alt=\"https:\/\/img.asmedia.epimg.net\/resizer\/v2\/2USUZTBQRBAHLGELLV55G2C3KY.JPG?auth=8ec9d479749bf6fd70c67b2842eaeb50facaab848f158eb5ddda917b584bd4e7&amp;focal=899%2C273&amp;height=1200&amp;width=1200\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Sources close to the club indicate that Alonso\u2019s <strong>high-pressing system<\/strong> proved divisive within the squad. Several senior players were reportedly unconvinced by the physical demands and structural changes, leading to friction that intensified as results dipped.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Super Cup Fallout and the Mbapp\u00e9 Incident<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Tensions reached boiling point following Real Madrid\u2019s Super Cup loss to arch-rivals <strong>Barcelona<\/strong>. Post-match footage circulated widely on social media showing Mbapp\u00e9 appearing to <strong>wave off Barcelona\u2019s guard of honor<\/strong>, a moment interpreted by many as emblematic of unrest within the dressing room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While Mbapp\u00e9\u2019s actions were never officially linked to Alonso\u2019s dismissal, the incident was widely seen as undermining the coach\u2019s authority at a critical moment, accelerating internal decision-making at board level.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Mbapp\u00e9 Breaks Silence with Emotional Statement<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Shortly after Alonso\u2019s departure was confirmed, Mbapp\u00e9 released a heartfelt public message paying tribute to his former manager:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\u201cIt\u2019s been short but it was a pleasure to play for you and to learn from you. Thank you for giving me the confidence since Day 1 here at Real Madrid.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1480\" height=\"833\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/gettyimages-2161631516.jpg\" alt=\"https:\/\/media.cnn.com\/api\/v1\/images\/stellar\/prod\/gettyimages-2161631516.jpg?c=16x9&amp;q=h_833%2Cw_1480%2Cc_fill\" class=\"wp-image-10047\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/gettyimages-2161631516.jpg 1480w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/gettyimages-2161631516-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/gettyimages-2161631516-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/gettyimages-2161631516-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/gettyimages-2161631516-150x84.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/gettyimages-2161631516-696x392.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/gettyimages-2161631516-1068x601.jpg 1068w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1480px) 100vw, 1480px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\u201cI will remember you as a manager who had clear ideas and knows many things about football. Best of luck for your next chapter.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>The statement was widely shared by fans and media alike, highlighting a respectful personal relationship despite the turbulent end to Alonso\u2019s tenure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u00c1lvaro Arbeloa Appointed as Immediate Replacement<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Real Madrid have moved swiftly, appointing <strong>\u00c1lvaro Arbeloa<\/strong>, the current Castilla head coach, as <strong>interim first-team manager<\/strong>. A club legend and former defender, Arbeloa brings deep institutional knowledge, having won <strong>three La Liga titles<\/strong> during his playing career with Los Blancos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The club hierarchy views Arbeloa as a stabilizing figure capable of restoring unity and discipline, while longer-term managerial options are assessed.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"458\" height=\"566\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Areola.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-10045\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Areola.jpg 458w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Areola-243x300.jpg 243w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Areola-150x185.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Areola-300x371.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Areola-324x400.jpg 324w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 458px) 100vw, 458px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What This Means for Real Madrid Moving Forward<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>With the season still in full swing, Real Madrid face a critical period. Arbeloa\u2019s immediate priorities will be to steady performances, repair dressing-room cohesion, and keep the club competitive domestically and in Europe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For Alonso, the departure may sting, but his reputation as one of Europe\u2019s brightest young managers remains largely intact. Meanwhile, Mbapp\u00e9\u2019s leadership and influence will continue to be closely watched as Madrid attempt to regroup after yet another high-profile managerial change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Why Bet on Bangbet?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"http:\/\/bangbet.com\/\">Bangbet<\/a>&nbsp;is your No.1 home for sports betting<\/strong>\u2014trusted, rewarding, and built for fans who want more from every match.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>High odds on all Premier League fixtures<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Jackpot opportunities every week<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Expert match previews and betting guides<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fast payouts and reliable customer service<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wide selection of casino games<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cashback bonuses and promotions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Responsible gaming support for all players<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bet smart. Bet confidently. Bet with Bangbet.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Bet Smarter with BangBet Nigeria<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>Want to cash in on the Champions League?&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng-m\">BangBet Nigeria<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;offers top-tier football odds, instant payouts, and a fast, seamless betting experience trusted by thousands of Nigerian punters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>New User Bonus:<\/strong>\u00a0Sign up and get a\u00a0<strong>FREE BET<\/strong>\u00a0to kick off your UCL betting journey.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Fast MTN &amp; Airtel deposits &amp; withdrawals.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Live betting &amp; boosted odds.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Daily jackpots &amp; promos.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Visit&nbsp;<strong>BangBet<\/strong>&nbsp;today and bet on all football games with Nigeria\u2019s favourite sportsbook!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bet with&nbsp;<a href=\"http:\/\/bangbet.com\/\">Bangbet&nbsp;<\/a>\u2013 where unbeatable odds meet thrilling bonuses, free bets, and nonstop promos! We go beyond betting by offering expert predictions, helpful guides, and personalized support for your betting journey. At&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/play.google.com\/store\/apps\/details?id=com.bangbet.androidgsavvggplay\">Bangbet<\/a>, it\u2019s more than a game \u2013 it\u2019s your ultimate betting experience, backed by care and confidence.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"http:\/\/bangbet.com\/\">Bangbet<\/a>&nbsp;More Than Win!<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Real Madrid have officially parted ways with head coach Xabi Alonso following their defeat in the Spanish Super Cup, bringing an abrupt end to a short but intense managerial spell at the Santiago Bernab\u00e9u. Alonso, who was appointed in May 2025 after the departure of Carlo Ancelotti, leaves after just eight months in charge, amid [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":10043,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[35],"tags":[2008,2009,158,2004,1697,2007],"class_list":{"0":"post-10039","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-football-news","8":"tag-madrid-manager","9":"tag-madrid-sack-xabi-alonso","10":"tag-real-madrid","11":"tag-real-madrid-coach","12":"tag-xabi-alonso","13":"tag-xabi-alonso-leaves-madrid"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10039","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/8"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=10039"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10039\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":10048,"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10039\/revisions\/10048"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/10043"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=10039"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=10039"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ng\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=10039"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}