Xabi Alonso: The Next Real Madrid Manager

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Real Madrid is more than just a football club, and it’s a legacy that spans generations. Some of its greatest players have returned to the Bernabéu not as players but as managers.

From Miguel Munoz to Zinedine Zidane, the club has a rich history of giving its own legends the chance to lead from the sidelines.

Now, all eyes are on Xabi Alonso, who is confirmed to become the next Real Madrid manager, although the official contract is still pending. With his recent success at Bayer Leverkusen and deep ties to the club, fans eagerly await his return.

Let’s take a look at the Real Madrid players who later became managers, and dive deeper into why Xabi Alonso is seen as the perfect fit for the job.

Real Madrid Players Who Became Managers

Player-Manager	Playing Career at Real Madrid	Managerial Career at Real Madrid
Miguel Munoz	1948–1958; midfielder; 3× European Cup winner	1959–1974; 9 La Liga titles, 2 European Cups
Vicente del Bosque	1968–1984; defensive midfielder	1999–2003; 2 La Liga, 2 UEFA Champions Leagues
José Antonio Camacho	1973–1989; left-back, 400+ appearances	1998 (brief), 2004 (brief)
Jorge Valdano	1984–1987; forward; 1986 La Liga winner	1994–1996; won 1995 La Liga
Mariano García Remón	1970s–80s; goalkeeper	2004; short stint
Zinedine Zidane	2001–2006; attacking midfielder; UCL & La Liga winner	2016–2018, 2019–2021; 3× UCL titles, 2× La Liga
Santiago Solari	2000–2005; midfielder; part of Galácticos era	2018–2019; short-term role
Raúl González (potential)	1994–2010; club legend; 323 goals	Currently coaches Real Madrid Castilla
Xabi Alonso (confirmed, pending official signing)	2009–2014; deep-lying playmaker, La Décima winner	Set to take over in 2025; praised for modern tactics

Xabi Alonso: The Next Man to Lead Los Blancos

🚨⚪️ Real Madrid have decided to try bring in a new centre back this summer, clear indication from Xabi Alonso accepted by the management.

The club also keeps looking for a new left back as part of the transfer strategy. pic.twitter.com/Dl2dYMRO6q
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 13, 2025

Xabi Alonso is already confirmed to become Real Madrid’s next manager. The club and Alonso have reached an agreement, and only the official signing remains. It’s a move that feels both bold and perfectly fitting.

As a Player:

Years at Real Madrid: 2009–2014
Trophies:
- La Liga (2011–12)
- 2× Copa del Rey
- UEFA Champions League (2013–14)
Known for his world-class vision, passing, and calmness under pressure, Alonso was the heartbeat of the midfield during one of Madrid’s most competitive eras.

As a Manager:

Real Sociedad B (2019–2022): Promoted the team to the Segunda División while developing young talent.
Bayer Leverkusen (2022–2024):
- Delivered the first Bundesliga title in the club’s history
- Completed an undefeated league season
- Praised for fluid tactics, high pressing, and adaptability

FAQs

Q. Has Xabi Alonso signed with Real Madrid as manager?

A. Xabi Alonso has been confirmed to take over, but the official contract has not yet been signed. It’s expected to be formalized soon, likely for the 2025 season.

Q. What did Xabi Alonso achieve as a Real Madrid player?

A. He won La Liga and two Copa del Rey titles and was a vital part of the squad that won La Décima, the club’s historic 10th Champions League title in 2014.

Q. Why is Real Madrid choosing Xabi Alonso?

A. He combines deep football intelligence, a proven winning record, and strong ties to the club. His unbeaten Bundesliga season with Bayer Leverkusen showed he’s ready for the biggest stage.