Xabi Alonso Returns to Real Madrid for Third Time: Only Two Old Teammates Remain, Farewell to Modrić After Club World Cup

On May 25, 2025, Real Madrid officially announced the appointment of Xabi Alonso as the head coach of the first team, replacing Carlo Ancelotti. The 43-year-old football legend signed a contract running until June 30, 2028, marking a new chapter for both the club and Alonso. His tenure will officially begin on June 1, with preparations immediately underway for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.

For Alonso, this appointment is far from a surprise. It’s the third time he is returning to Real Madrid in different capacities — first as a pivotal player, then as a youth coach, and now at the helm of the senior squad. His history with the club is deeply intertwined with some of the greatest moments in recent Real Madrid history.

Alonso’s First Stint: The Midfield Maestro of the Galácticos II

Xabi Alonso first joined Real Madrid in the summer of 2009 from Liverpool for a transfer fee reported to be around €35 million. Arriving at the Santiago Bernabéu, he quickly established himself as a central figure in the Galácticos II generation, taking on the role of midfield organizer with grace and precision. Over the course of five seasons, Alonso made 236 appearances, netting 6 goals and assisting 31 times.

During this period, Alonso was instrumental in Real Madrid’s accumulation of five trophies, including the coveted UEFA Champions League title. His tactical intelligence, calm on the ball, and exceptional passing range made him a linchpin in the team’s midfield, beloved by fans and respected by teammates and rivals alike.

From Player to Coach: Alonso’s Early Managerial Steps at Real Madrid

After concluding his playing career in 2017, Alonso wasted no time in beginning his journey on the touchline. His first coaching role was with Real Madrid’s U14 squad, where he spent a year honing his managerial skills. Demonstrating ambition and a keen footballing brain, Alonso soon chose to expand his experience by leaving Real Madrid’s youth setup to take charge of Real Sociedad B, the reserve team of his hometown club.

His dedication to coaching reflected a clear career goal: to one day manage top clubs, ideally those he had been closely associated with during his playing days. Now, with his return as the first-team manager of Real Madrid, Alonso has achieved one of his most ambitious targets.

The Third Reunion: Facing Familiar Faces and New Challenges

As Alonso prepares to lead Real Madrid’s senior team, the current squad still features a few of his old comrades from his playing days. Among these, only two remain as direct links to his past tenure: Dani Carvajal and Luka Modrić.

Dani Carvajal: The Veteran Right-Back

Carvajal, who was Alonso’s teammate during the 2013-14 season when Real Madrid famously clinched the Champions League trophy, remains a key figure in the squad. At just 22 years old back then, Carvajal quickly became the first-choice right-back, demonstrating remarkable consistency and defensive prowess.

Unfortunately, the 2024-25 season has been marred by severe injuries for Carvajal. He suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), damage to his lateral collateral ligament (LCL), and a ruptured hamstring tendon in his right leg. This trio of devastating injuries has cast serious doubt on his availability for the upcoming Club World Cup, putting his presence under Alonso’s new regime in jeopardy.

Luka Modrić: A Storied Partnership Ending Sooner Than Expected

Perhaps the most emotionally charged relationship within the squad is between Alonso and Luka Modrić. The two shared the pitch for two seasons and formed a mentor-mentee bond off it. After Alonso's appointment was confirmed, reports from Marca and other media outlets revealed that Alonso requested the club to extend Modrić’s contract, hoping to maintain their connection on the field.

However, Real Madrid declined this request, indicating a shift toward a new team structure. Modrić’s contract is set to expire following the FIFA Club World Cup in mid-July, signaling an end to his illustrious career at the club. This brief overlap of only 48 days between Alonso’s managerial debut and Modrić’s farewell adds a bittersweet dimension to their story — a poignant “see you soon” rather than a long-lasting reunion.

The Bayern Connection: Alaba’s Waning Role

David Alaba, another familiar name linked to Alonso, was his teammate at Bayern Munich rather than Real Madrid. The Austrian international transferred to Real Madrid and initially provided solid performances. However, injuries and a dip in form have diminished his influence in the squad.

With the arrival of Dean Huijsen, a promising young defender, Alaba’s tactical role in the team is expected to decrease further under Alonso’s management. This phase signals a period of transition as Alonso balances experience with youth in his squad.

A Managerial Vision Rooted in Legacy and Ambition

Xabi Alonso’s managerial journey is a compelling narrative of legacy, ambition, and loyalty. As a player, he was integral to the Galácticos’ midfield engine room; as a youth coach, he nurtured the next generation of talent; and now as head coach, he embarks on his most significant challenge yet.

Alonso’s long-term contract until 2028 speaks volumes about Real Madrid’s faith in his vision. His appointment reflects the club’s desire to blend tradition with modernity, harnessing the experience of former players who understand the club’s ethos while driving innovation on the tactical front.

Alonso’s career ambition is well known: he aspires to manage one of the three great clubs he played for — Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, or Liverpool. This milestone confirms he is well on his way.

Final Thoughts: A New Era Begins Amid Fond Farewells

Xabi Alonso’s return to Real Madrid as head coach symbolizes more than just a managerial change. It represents a bridge between eras, linking the club’s storied past with its future aspirations. While only two of his old teammates remain to witness this new chapter, the spirit of camaraderie and excellence that defined Alonso’s playing days endures.

The brief farewell to Luka Modrić after the Club World Cup adds a touch of poignancy to this transition, reminding fans that football is as much about endings as beginnings. Alonso now faces the task of forging a new legacy, guiding Real Madrid through a season filled with high expectations and enormous pressure.

With his tactical acumen, leadership qualities, and deep connection to the club, Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid is poised for a fascinating journey ahead. The coming months will reveal whether the former midfield maestro can translate his brilliance on the pitch into success from the dugout.