Real Madrid appoint Xabi Alonso as Manager on three-year contract

Real Madrid has appointed Xabi Alonso as their new manager. He signed a three-year contract. Alonso replaces Carlo Ancelotti, who will coach Brazil's national team starting Monday. Ancelotti's last game with Real Madrid is on Saturday.

Alonso, 43, recently left Bayer Leverkusen after two and a half years. He had a successful run there, winning a league and cup double last season. His team narrowly missed an unbeaten treble, losing to Atalanta in the Europa League final.

Alonso will be presented as manager at an event in Madrid on Monday. He will also speak to the media during this event.

A statement from Real Madrid praised Alonso as a club legend. He played 236 official matches for the team from 2009 to 2014. During that time, he won six titles, including the European Cup in Lisbon.

Alonso is also celebrated for his achievements with Spain's national team. He won one World Cup in 2010 and two European Championships in 2008 and 2012. He earned 113 caps for Spain.

He began his coaching career at Real Madrid’s youth academy. In the 2018-2019 season, he managed the U14 A team and won the league title and champions tournament.

Now, he returns to Real Madrid as one of the best coaches globally. At Bayer Leverkusen, he made history by winning the league, cup, and German Super Cup in three seasons.