Why was Xabi Alonso fired by Real Madrid?

Xabi Alonso was dismissed despite strong performances, with the club citing a "parting of ways" after a loss to Barcelona.

Who is the new interim coach for Real Madrid?

Former Real Madrid player Alvaro Arbeloa has been named the interim head coach of the side.

What is Villarreal's current standing in La Liga?

Villarreal is in third place in La Liga, with 41 points, and is considered a contender in the title race.

Home / Sports / Real Madrid: Manager Fired, Copa Exit, New Coach Faces Pressure

Real Madrid: Manager Fired, Copa Exit, New Coach Faces Pressure

17 Jan

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Summary

Xabi Alonso dismissed after 31 matches despite strong league and Champions League performance.
New coach Alvaro Arbeloa saw the team eliminated from Copa del Rey in his debut match.
Villarreal, in third place, aims for victory against sixth-place Betis in a key European race match.

Real Madrid: Manager Fired, Copa Exit, New Coach Faces Pressure

Real Madrid is navigating a period of significant upheaval following the dismissal of manager Xabi Alonso, just 31 matches into his tenure. Despite strong league positioning and a robust Champions League campaign, the club parted ways with the highly-regarded coach after a loss to Barcelona. Former player Alvaro Arbeloa has been appointed as the interim head coach.

Arbeloa's immediate challenge was the Copa del Rey Round of 16 match, where Real Madrid suffered a surprising 3-2 defeat to second-division side Albacete. This Copa exit compounds the club's recent turmoil and places immense pressure on Arbeloa as he prepares for his first league fixture at the Bernabeu against Levante.