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Why did Real Madrid actually sack Xabi Alonso?
Soccer
Why did Real Madrid actually sack Xabi Alonso?
Tifo Football by The Athletic›
Jan 26, 20267:28568.4K views
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When Xabi Alonso was hired as Carlo Ancelotti’s replacement in May 2025, he arrived with the Real Madrid hierarchy’s blessing to impose more discipline and develop a distinct style of play.
Yet for many outside observers, the club’s decision to sack him in January 2026 was a bit confusing.
This is the inside story of Xabi Alonso’s sacking, not “mutual agreement”.
Explained by Kaya Kaynak, with contributions from The Athletic’s writers Mario Cortegana and Guillermo Rai. Illustrated by Henry Cooke.
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Additional footage sourced from freestockfootagearchive.com
Music provided by APM Music
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