In a landmark announcement for Real Madrid fans, the club officially confirmed on Sunday that former midfield maestro Xabi Alonso will take the helm as the new first-team manager, succeeding the legendary Carlo Ancelotti.
The 43-year-old returns to the Santiago Bernabeu following a triumphant spell at Bayer Leverkusen, where he led the German side to a historic treble, winning the Bundesliga, DFB Pokal, and German Super Cup.
Contract Signed, First Words to the Madridistas
Following Sunday's official confirmation, Alonso arrived at Real Madrid's Valdebebas training complex today. He signed his contract alongside president Florentino Perez, posed for photographs, and was formally presented to the media and fans.
The club legend wasted no time in addressing the Madrid faithful after taking charge. In a video message released by the club, Alonso stated: "Hello, Real Madrid fans! I’m here. Very happy to begin this new era, full of enthusiasm and energy. I send you all my best. Hala Madrid!"
An Emotional Presentation and Heartfelt Speech
The presentation ceremony commenced with a video montage showcasing Alonso's finest moments as a Real Madrid player, followed by highlights from his successful tenure as Leverkusen manager. President Florentino Perez then welcomed the new coach with a touching speech, after which Alonso addressed the attendees.
"Good morning. Without a doubt, for me, it’s a very special day. A day I’ll mark on my calendar for life. I’m very happy to be here, in what I feel is my home," Alonso expressed, via RMTV.
He continued, reflecting on his deep connection with the club: "The connection with Real Madrid has never ceased to exist, and since I walked into Valdebebas an hour and a half ago, that feeling has been reborn. I have the feeling that this is the beginning of a new era."
Gratitude to Perez, Fans, and a Tribute to Ancelotti
Alonso extended his gratitude to President Perez for his trust: "Florentino, thank you very much for your confidence. I feel that the fans, that Real Madrid fans, are excited to begin this new era, to grow and to make the history of this club even greater. Thanks also to my family, who are the ones who always support me."
He then paid a heartfelt tribute to his predecessor, Carlo Ancelotti, under whom he played at Real Madrid: "Before I start talking about the new phase, I don’t want to stop talking about the phase that has come to an end. Carlo was my coach, a great person and a great influence. Without his mastery, I probably wouldn’t be here. I take over from him and I take up his legacy with a lot of honour and a lot of pride. I hope I can live up to expectations and take the club to all the places where we all believe we can do it.
