Xabi Alonso has officially been unveiled as the new manager of Real Madrid, marking the beginning of what he calls a "new era" for the Spanish giants.

The 43-year-old, a former midfield maestro for Los Blancos, returns to the Santiago Bernabéu on a three-year deal following a successful spell in Germany, where he led Bayer Leverkusen to a historic Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal double in the 2023/24 season. He replaces Carlo Ancelotti, who departs to take over the Brazilian national team.

Speaking at his unveiling at Madrid’s Valdebebas training complex, Alonso didn’t hide his excitement. “It’s the start of an era,” he said with conviction. “The Real Madrid fans are excited to begin this new era, to grow, and to make the history of this club even greater.”

Alonso returns to Madrid 11 years after leaving as a player, and his connection to the club was palpable during his speech. “It’s a special day. It’s a day I will have marked in my calendar for life. I am very happy to be here, in what I feel is my home.”

The appointment follows a difficult season for Real Madrid, who surrendered the La Liga title to rivals Barcelona, lost to them in both the Copa del Rey and Spanish Supercopa finals, and were eliminated from the Champions League by Arsenal at the quarter-final stage.

But Alonso is focused on the future, drawing on the club's immense talent and legacy as motivation. “We have fantastic players, a team with a very good present and future. That gives me great energy and hope to build something worthy of Real Madrid,” he said.

He outlined a bold vision for his team: “I want a team that transmits emotion, energy, ambitious play and connects with the fans.”

The new manager also paid a heartfelt tribute to his predecessor, Ancelotti—who not only coached Alonso at Real Madrid but also at Bayern Munich. “Carlo was my coach, a great person, and a huge influence. Without his mastery, I probably wouldn’t be here. I take over and carry on his legacy with great honour and pride.”

Xabi Alonso will officially begin his role on June 1, ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup next month.