Xabi Alonso says Real Madrid exit 'scar' healed as he leads Chelsea

Former Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso, dismissed after the Supercopa de España loss in January 2026, has taken over as Chelsea manager. In interviews published by The Athletic and other outlets, he described the departure as a "scar" that has now healed, emphasizing that he is motivated and ready to enjoy the next step, just as he did when he began his coaching career in Madrid.

Alonso said he used the months without a club to recover energy and reflect on both the positive and negative aspects of his brief Real Madrid spell, noting his self‑criticism and the lessons learned about game tactics and man‑management. He also addressed the situation of Ukrainian winger Mykhailo Mudryk, who returned from a doping ban; Alonso stated that no final decision has been made about Mudryk’s role but the player could feature in upcoming pre‑season matches.

The comments come as Chelsea prepare for the new Premier League season, with the club on a pre‑season tour in Australia and planning friendlies against Juventus and other opponents.