Real Madrid fans are among the most passionate in the world and many have had plenty to say about Xabi Alonso's departure. The Spanish coach parted ways on Monday (January 12th) after the club announced he had left on mutual terms.
Various outlets report that Alonso was sacked and that the decision came as a shock to the 44-year-old. He only returned to the Estadio Bernabeu as Carlo Ancelotti's replacement in June, but a tumultous reign has been brought to an end just seven months on.
Alonso oversaw 24 wins in 34 games, with a winning percentage of 70.6% in all competitions. But issues behind the scenes, rumors of rifts with players and a 3-2 loss to Barcelona in the Supercopa de Espana final mean Alvaro Arbeloa will see out the rest of the season as caretaker manager.
Real Madrid fans polled on Alonso exit
Alonso's exit had the football world talking and that included Madridistas who argued for and against the Spaniard leaving the Bernabeu. While some had seen problems growing throughout the season it seems many realise how little time he was given to implement his ideas.
TheRealChamps sent out a poll the day after Alonso left and the results indicate he had the fans' support. 74.9% of voters were unhappy to see him leave while 12.3% were pleased with the decision.
Are you pleased to see Xabi Alonso leave Real Madrid?
— The Real Champs (@TheRealChampsFS) January 12, 2026
Another 12.8% were unsure how to feel but the overwhelming consensus is that Alonso should have stayed on. It pains a picture of just how much fans wanted to see the Los Blancos legend become a success in the Bernabeu dugout.
Arbeloa must get Madrid fans on board
It's a difficult time for Madrid and the fans are experiencing one of the lowest periods in the club's modern era. Not only are they licking their wounds after the El Clasico defeat to Barca in the Supercopa final but also dealing with another managerial change.
Alvaro Arbeloa is the man tasked with turning things around and he starts against Albacelete in the Copa del Rey tonight (January 14th). He will be without several star players including Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo but he does have Vinicius Junior available.
If Arbeloa can get lift the spirits within the squad and among fans it could go a long way in helping save Madrid's season. Alonso departed with his side only four points behind Barca in the La Liga title race and in seventh place in the Champions League table.