By Charles Maduka
New Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso says he is full of energy and optimism as he takes over from Carlo Ancelotti, promising to guide the club back to winning ways.
Speaking during his official unveiling, Alonso said he is ready to restore Madrid’s dominance both domestically and in Europe. The 43-year-old has signed a contract running until June 2028 and will lead the team into the upcoming Club World Cup.
Madrid are coming off a disappointing season in which they failed to win a single trophy. They lost the La Liga title to Barcelona and were beaten by the same rivals in both the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup finals. Their Champions League journey ended in a heavy quarter-final loss to Arsenal.
Despite the setbacks, Alonso remains upbeat about the future. “We have fantastic players and a team with huge potential. I’m here with hope and drive, and I believe we can build something special,” he said.
Alonso returns to a familiar setting, having made 236 appearances for Madrid as a player between 2009 and 2014. He helped the club win six trophies, including the historic 10th European title in 2014.
He arrives with strong coaching credentials, having just led Bayer Leverkusen to an unbeaten domestic double in Germany. His success attracted interest from several top clubs.
Describing the occasion as “a special day,” Alonso said, “Though I’ve been away, my bond with Madrid never broke. Returning here feels like a new beginning.”
Club president Florentino Pérez expressed confidence in Alonso’s leadership, calling him “one of our own” and welcoming him home.
Alonso’s first test will come in June when Madrid face Al-Hilal in their opening Club World Cup match in Miami.
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