Xabi Alonso is returning to Real Madrid with the former midfielder taking over as coach from Carlo Ancelotti and leading the team at the upcoming Club World Cup.Veteran midfielder Luka Modric's departure after the Club World Cup means Alonso will be losing yet more poise,

Xabi Alonso will be the next manager of Real Madrid. The Spaniard reunites with the club he spent five illustrious years at as a player, replacing Carlo Ancelotti in the Santiago Bernabeu hot seat following the Italian’s appointment as Brazil manager.

Xabi Alonso is returning to Real Madrid to take over a club that failed to meet expectations this season. The Spanish powerhouse announced the hiring of Alonso on Sunday to replace Carlo Ancelotti, who is leaving to take over the Brazil job. Alonso will take over on June 1 and will be given a contract through June 2028, the club said.