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Xabi Alonso has left Real Madrid with immediate effect following their 2-1 Super Copa defeat to Barcelona on Sunday. Alonso has left the Spanish giants by 'mutual agreement', with the club four points behind the Catalan club at the top of La Liga.
A club statement said: "Real Madrid C.F. announces that, by mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to end his tenure as first-team coach. Xabi Alonso will always have the affection and admiration of all Madrid fans because he is a Real Madrid legend and has always embodied the values of our club. Real Madrid will always be his home.
"Our club thanks Xabi Alonso and his entire coaching staff for their work and dedication during this time, and wishes them the best of luck in this new chapter of their lives."
This could prove a major boost for Arsenal, who have been linked with Rodrygo. The Brazilian is reportedly 'accelerating' his exit by holding talks with two prospective new agents to facilitate a January move - a scenario Los Blancos are not willing to entertain.
The Premier League is viewed as his 'most likely' destination, with Manchester City - Arsenal's fellow title contenders, also previously linked. However, City have since moved to sign Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth.
Liverpool are also thought to be monitoring Rodrygo’s situation, with the forward’s playing time having decreased under Alonso. However, the manager’s departure could give the 25‑year‑old a fresh opportunity under the new regime.
Shortly after confirming Alonso's departure, Real appointed Alvaro Arbeloa as their new coach. Arbeloa represented the club for seven seasons, from 2009 to 2016. In 2020, he began working as a coach within Real's youth academy.
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