Real Madrid ushers in the Alonso era: 'Everyone knew what your destiny would be'

“It is a very special day,” said Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez during Xabi Alonso’s official presentation as the new head coach at the Santiago Bernabéu.

“We are welcoming someone who is now among the best coaches in the world and who knows exactly what Real Madrid is, what this shirt means, and what it demands. Dear Xabi: welcome home.” Pérez, who has overseen many historic managerial appointments during his time at the helm of the club, made it clear that this moment marks more than just a new hiring it signals the beginning of a new era rooted in tradition and ambition.

The Real president went on to highlight Alonso’s journey from his early coaching days to becoming one of the most respected figures in world football. “Everyone knew what your destiny would be when you started your coaching career with Real Madrid’s Under-14 team back in 2018. You have always been destined for greatness. What you accomplished with Bayer Leverkusen leading them to their first Bundesliga title and establishing a style admired throughout Europe has placed you among the coaching elite. Now, you return home, ready to face one of the most demanding and thrilling challenges of your career. You understand the expectations of this badge better than anyone, and I have no doubt that we will experience many wonderful and historic moments together.”

After Pérez’s words, it was Alonso’s turn to take the stage. The 42-year-old Spaniard, visibly emotional, delivered a speech filled with gratitude and determination. Having signed a contract until June 2028, he acknowledged the magnitude of the opportunity and the weight of responsibility that comes with leading Real Madrid. “Without a doubt, this is a very special day for me and my family,” Alonso said. “Real Madrid has always meant a great deal to me. From the moment I wore this shirt as a player, and even more so when I began my coaching journey here, I’ve always felt a deep connection. My bond with this club never faded. That’s why this moment feels so right. I have the sense that this is the beginning of a new era not just for me, but for this incredible institution. Florentino, thank you for your trust.”

Alonso will make his debut on the Real Madrid bench during the FIFA Club World Cup, which gives him a symbolic but meaningful start to his tenure. While these matches might not carry the same pressure as La Liga or Champions League fixtures, they offer a chance to make early impressions, test his ideas, and get to know his squad in a competitive environment.

He also made a point to pay tribute to Carlo Ancelotti, the man he is succeeding. “Before we start this new era, I want to acknowledge the one that came before,” he said. “Carlo wasn’t just my coach he’s a great person. I learned so much from him, not only tactically but also in how he handled people, how he managed pressure, and how he carried himself with integrity. Without his guidance and legacy, I wouldn’t be here today. I take the baton from him with pride, and I will carry forward his work with the utmost honor. I’m convinced we can achieve great things together.”

Alonso’s return to Madrid comes after an extraordinary spell at Bayer Leverkusen, where he led the German side to their first-ever Bundesliga title while going unbeaten throughout the season. His team was praised for its tactical intelligence, fluid attacking football, and collective discipline. In less than two seasons, Alonso transformed Leverkusen into one of the most admired sides in Europe, winning plaudits not only for the results but for the clear identity and unity he instilled in the team.

Now, he takes over a Real Madrid squad in transition. Veterans like Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos are approaching the end of their legendary careers, while a new generation of stars, including Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Arda Güler, are expected to carry the team forward. Alonso’s reputation for developing young talent and implementing structured yet expressive football makes him an ideal fit for this evolving group. He is tasked not just with winning titles, but with building a sustainable project that blends immediate success with long-term vision.

As a player, Alonso was known for his intelligence, calm leadership, and elegance on the ball qualities he has carried into his coaching. He understands the demands of the club from the inside, having won La Liga in 2012 and the Champions League in 2014 with Los Blancos. That deep understanding of the club’s identity, combined with his modern tactical approach, gives Madridistas plenty of reason to believe in this new era.

His appointment is not just a sentimental choice it is a strategic one. Real Madrid is looking ahead, building a future where the club’s values are upheld by someone who has lived them. Alonso is not just returning to a club where he once played he is coming back to lead, to evolve, and to inspire. The challenge is immense, but so is the belief in his potential.

As he begins this next chapter in his career, Alonso does so with the full support of the club, the president, and millions of fans around the world. The road ahead will be demanding, filled with pressure and expectations. But it is also full of possibility. A new era truly begins, and Real Madrid believes it has the right man to lead it.