Sport News

Author: Tamas | Category: Football / International | Date: 2026.01.13. Reading Time: 3 minutes ⏱️ 

MADRID – The dream is over after just seven months: Xabi Alonso has been sacked by Real Madrid. Behind the scenes, however, it wasn't poor results but an out-of-control dressing room power struggle that led to his exit. Florentino Pérez has already appointed a successor, but the question remains: who truly rules the "Kings of Europe"?

While 25 wins and only 5 losses in 34 matches would usually guarantee a manager's safety, at Real Madrid, it simply wasn't enough. Xabi Alonso's departure came like a bolt from the blue, but according to the latest reports from Cadena Ser, the decision had been brewing for weeks.

When Stars Dictate: The Vinícius Conflict

Reports suggest that the dressing room has been taken over by so-called "player power." The turning point was last October's El Clásico. Although Real won 2–1 against Barcelona, the match was overshadowed by a scandal: Vinícius Júnior reportedly insulted Alonso in an explosive outburst after the manager substituted him in the second half.

Internal sources claim this was the moment Alonso first felt that the board—led by Florentino Pérez—would not back him. The club sided with the star players over tactical decisions, causing the manager's authority to evaporate instantly.

Contract Tricks: Alonso Loses Millions

Interesting details have emerged regarding the Spaniard's contract. According to Fabrizio Romano, Real Madrid triggered a special clause: because Alonso was dismissed during his first year, the club is not required to pay out his full salary until 2028. The coach will only receive his pay for the current season, representing a massive saving for the club but a painful blow for the manager.

Arbeloa In, but is Klopp the Ultimate Target?

Real Madrid wasted no time: just eight minutes after announcing Alonso's sacking, they confirmed that former club defender Álvaro Arbeloa would take charge. However, many believe Arbeloa is only a "firefighting" solution.

According to Sky Sport, the real target is none other than Jürgen Klopp. The former Liverpool boss is currently working within the Red Bull organization, but rumors suggest Pérez is doing everything possible to bring the German genius to the Bernabéu bench in the summer of 2026.

Opinion: Is Discipline Dead at the Bernabéu?

The current situation at Real Madrid is alarming: if a character like Xabi Alonso can be pushed out by players in just seven months, who will be able to maintain order? The hierarchy has collapsed, and while Arbeloa knows the club's DNA, it remains to be seen if the squad's superstars will show him any respect.