Real Madrid have parted company with Xabi Alonso and promoted Álvaro Arbeloa as interim boss, with Jude Bellingham publicly dismissing rumours of player unrest. Betting angle: expect short-term volatility — consider backing Madrid for a bounce in single-match markets, but hold off on long-term title bets until squad stability is clearer.
Real Madrid part ways with Xabi Alonso after Super Cup defeat
Real Madrid have confirmed the departure of head coach Xabi Alonso following their loss to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final. Alonso's six-and-a-half-month spell at the Santiago Bernabéu has ended and the club has installed Álvaro Arbeloa, the Castilla coach, as interim manager.
Interim appointment and immediate outlook
Arbeloa steps up from the club’s reserve side to take charge temporarily while the hierarchy assess longer-term options. The change comes ahead of a busy run of domestic fixtures and leaves questions over how quickly the squad can adapt to new leadership.
Jude Bellingham rejects claims of dressing-room unrest
Midfielder Jude Bellingham moved to quash widespread rumours suggesting player friction contributed to Alonso’s exit, calling the speculation “a load of sh*t” and urging fans and media not to accept unverified claims. He insisted the reports are damaging misinformation and defended the professionalism of his teammates.
Other senior players respond
Kylian Mbappé also denied friction with Alonso, describing his time under the coach as a pleasure and praising the chance to learn. Both public responses aim to calm concern about squad unity amid the managerial change.
What the change means on the pitch
Alonso’s brief tenure featured tactical adjustments and rotation, but the team lacked the consistency needed in clutch moments. Arbeloa’s immediate task will be to steady performances, restore confidence and extract short-term results while the club considers its long-term managerial direction.
Betting implications and market reaction
Punters should expect short-term volatility in markets for upcoming matches. An interim manager bounce is possible, so single-game and short-term futures (cup or league match outcomes) may offer value. However, avoid committing to long-term title or season-long bets until the club’s strategic plan and any potential January transfer activity are clearer.
Jude Bellingham has denied reports suggesting he played a part in Xabi Alonso's Real Madrid demise
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