Álvaro Arbeloa has been appointed as the new Real Madrid head coach, taking over from Alonso with immediate effect.

Xabi Alonso has left his role as Real Madrid head coach with immediate effect, the club confirming the decision on Monday after Sunday’s Supercopa de España final defeat to Barcelona.

Madrid had been open to continuing with Alonso and maintaining faith in the wider project, but results and performances ultimately proved decisive. While the board do not believe Alonso is solely responsible, there were growing concerns over the team’s recent form, overall image and direction.

It is also understood doubts existed internally regarding Alonso’s connection with sections of the dressing room and the uptake of his ideas, factors that influenced the final call.