In what has been the worst kept secret in the footballing world, Xabi Alonso has been announced as Real Madrid’s new manager.
After announcing this month that he would leave Bayer Leverkusen this summer, the former Real and Liverpool midfielder has signed a three-year deal at the Bernabeu as Carlo Ancelotti’s successor.
It is an inevitable, if bittersweet, conclusion to Ancelotti’s second spell at Madrid.
So finally, we have the much expected transition, with the Italian legend stepping aside to take charge of Brazil and the young pretender returning to the Bernabeu.
This changing of the guard, from the club’s most decorated coach to a rising star in management, is symbolic. It marks the end of an era and the beginning of a fascinating new one.
A situation facilitated by the innate reasonableness of Bayer Leverkusen who, true to their word, stood by the gentlemen’s agreement between coach and club that they would not stand in Alonso’s way should he receive an offer he could not refuse.
Madrid are now preparing for a future led by their former midfielder, with president Florentino Perez viewing Alonso as the long-term answer.
The 43-year-old’s success at Leverkusen has elevated his profile, and Real believe he possesses the tactical sharpness and emotional intelligence to lead a generational transition.
Last year he led Leverkusen to a Bundesliga title, without losing a game, and the German Cup in his first full season as a senior club manager.
But the task Alonso faces at Real is enormous.
He will inherit a squad in flux, needing to balance Kylian Mbappe’s presence and Vinicius Jr’s leadership, with the Brazilian about to sign a longer contract.
Alonso will also need to integrate youngsters like Endrick and Arda Guler, phasing out the old guard and delivering trophies immediately.
He will also need to navigate a boardroom that wants influence, a fan base that demands instant success and a media environment that will hold him to impossible standards from day one.
Alonso has the tactical credentials, but this is Madrid where talent alone does not guarantee survival.
After winning La Liga and the Champions League last season, a campaign without a trophy serves to justify the club’s decision to end the Ancelotti era.
You cannot underestimate the enormity of his contribution to the club, though.
Fifteen trophies – more than any manager in the club’s history – in two eras of success, steadiness and quiet revolution.
Ancelotti brought dignity and calm to chaos. He won with style, without needing to shout, and restored order when the club was on the edge.
