‘I did my best’ – Alonso reflects on Real Madrid dismissal

Xabi Alonso insisted that he “did my best” as he released his first statement after being sacked as Real Madrid head coach.

The Spaniard was dismissed from his role on Monday, just a day after their Supercopa de Espana final defeat to Clasico rivals Barcelona.

Alonso won 70.6% of his matches at the helm (24/34), the sixth-best win percentage of any Los Blancos coach in all competitions.

Madrid are on course to automatically reach the last 16 of the Champions League, something they failed to do last season, while they are just four points behind LaLiga leaders Barcelona.

However, reports of disagreements with players such as Vinicius Junior earlier in the season seemed to take their toll on both the coach and the team.

“This professional stage is over, and it didn’t go as we would have liked,” said Alonso on Instagram.

“Coaching Real Madrid has been an honour and a responsibility.

“I thank the club, the players and above all the fans and Madrid fans for their trust and support. I leave with respect, gratitude, and pride that I did my best.”

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Alvaro Arbeloa has since been appointed as head coach, with his first game in charge coming against Albacete in the Copa del Rey round of 16.

Los Blancos then host Levante in LaLiga on the weekend before a Champions League match against Monaco.