Overview
- The club said Alonso’s exit was by mutual agreement less than eight months into his tenure, which ended with a 24‑4‑6 record despite a contract through 2028.
- Arbeloa, promoted from Castilla, takes over the first team with immediate effect, with his first match scheduled at home to Osasuna on Saturday.
- Barcelona’s 3-2 Supercopa win in Jeddah, featuring a Raphinha brace and a Lewandowski goal, directly preceded Madrid’s decision.
- Multiple reports describe dressing-room fractures, disputes over fitness staffing including Antonio Pintus, and moments that undercut Alonso’s authority such as players refusing a post-final guard of honor.
- Club-focused reporting signals no change to Mastantuono’s status or a loan plan, while separate media speculate about Alonso being a candidate for future roles, including at Liverpool.