In a turn of events that seemed almost too simple for the complex world of football, Xabi Alonso’s appointment as the head coach of Real Madrid was finalized with surprising ease. On April 21, 2025, a pivotal meeting at a residence in La Moraleja sealed the deal. Until then, it was all whispers and aspirations, but that day made it official: Alonso was coming back to the Bernabéu, this time to lead from the sidelines.
The journey to this significant change began months earlier, on January 22, when Bayer Leverkusen trained at Valdebebas ahead of a match. During this visit, Fernando Carro, CEO of the German club, crossed paths with José Ángel Sánchez, Real Madrid’s general manager. At that time, no discussions about Alonso’s future took place. The focus was on maintaining calm until March when Leverkusen would decide on Alonso’s contract extension. Despite the swirling rumors, Alonso remained professional during his brief stay in Madrid, greeting former teammates and officials without hinting at his potential return.
The Catalyst: A Champions League Setback
However, the dynamics shifted dramatically following a painful week for Real Madrid. A Champions League exit at the hands of Arsenal on April 17 at Santiago Bernabéu accelerated the club’s plans to bring in Alonso. Carlo Ancelotti’s tenure, marred by injuries and mounting pressure, seemed to be drawing to a close. The club sought a fresh approach and a modern identity that aligned with the evolving game.
A Gentlemen’s Agreement
On April 21, as Bayer Leverkusen was in Madrid for the Laureus Awards ceremony, Carro and Sánchez met discreetly away from public scrutiny. In this private setting, a gentlemen’s agreement was reached, complete with financial compensation. With Alonso’s return greenlit, Carro attended the awards ceremony with confidence that everything was now in motion.
Just days later, Ancelotti was informed of the club’s decision not to extend his contract beyond the season. By May 12, it was confirmed that he would take over as head coach of the Brazilian national team. This seamless transition exemplified Real Madrid’s institutional mastery—no crises or controversies, just a strategic shift towards an intelligent and demanding style of football under Alonso.
These five days in April will be remembered as a transformative period for Real Madrid as they redefine their future under Xabi Alonso’s leadership.
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