Who said goodbye… and who didn’t? Real Madrid dressing room splits after Xabi Alonso exit

17 posted tributes… others said nothing

Who said goodbye… and who didn’t? Real Madrid dressing room splits after Xabi Alonso exit

Kylian Mbappé has led outpouring of tributes from Real Madrid’s dressing room after the club confirmed the dismissal of head coach Xabi Alonso, just hours after Sunday’s 3-2 Super Cup defeat to Barcelona.

The Clasico final proved to be Alonso’s last match in charge ending seven month spell at the Santiago Bernabéu following his appointment as Carlo Ancelotti’s successor.

Real Madrid announced on Monday that the departure was by mutual agreement, with former defender Alvaro Arbeloa named as his replacement.

Mbappé was first senior figure to respond publicly. Writing on Instagram, the French forward paid tribute to the coach who trusted him from day one.

“It was short period but real pleasure to play under you and learn from you,” Mbappe wrote. “Thank you for believing in me from first day. I will always remember you as coach with vision and true football expert. I wish you all the best for the future.”

He was soon followed by Aurélien Tchouaméni who described Alonso as “one of the best coaches” while Arda Guler delivered deeply personal message crediting Alonso with shaping his development.

“Every conversation, every detail, every request helped me refine my game” Guler wrote. “Your belief in me made me better player. Your impact will stay with me forever.”

In total 17 of Real Madrid’s 24 first team player have now posted farewell messages. Among those who shared tributes were:

• Thibaut Courtois
• Rodrygo
• Federico Valverde
• Antonio Rüdiger
• Dani Carvajal
• Eduardo Camavinga
• David Alaba
• Lunin

Alonso leaves after 34 match in charge recording 24 win, four draw and six defeat.

His reign ends without silverware but with clear respect from the squad, a rare consensus in dressing room shaped by stars.