Appointment of Xabi Alonso
The appointment of Xabi Alonso as Real Madrid’s new head coach marks a pivotal moment for the club, leading to a comprehensive overhaul of the first-team coaching staff. Following Carlo Ancelotti‘s departure to manage the Brazil national team, several members of his Italian coaching staff, who played crucial roles in securing two Champions League titles, have also left the Bernabeu. Replacing this esteemed group presents a formidable challenge for Alonso as he embarks on his managerial journey with the renowned Spanish club.
Central Coaching Staff
Central to Alonso’s new coaching team is Sebastián Parrilla, affectionately known as Sebas. Parrilla stands out as the sole member of the staff who has been with Alonso throughout his coaching career, beginning their partnership in 2018 at Real Madrid’s Under-14 team. A former player with experience at clubs like Liverpool and Bayern Munich, Alonso sought someone with extensive knowledge of the Madrid academy to support him during this transition. Parrilla, who has spent nearly two decades working within Real Madrid’s youth systems, was recommended to Alonso by Manolo Diaz, a veteran coach admired for his expertise.
Following his time with the youth teams, Parrilla progressed to Real Sociedad’s B team and then to Bayer Leverkusen. His reputation as a “highly valued coach” at Leverkusen reflects his adeptness in both defensive strategies and overall team dynamics. At 47, he possesses a UEFA Pro Diploma, the highest coaching qualification in Europe. Colleagues describe him as loyal and discreet, creating a supportive environment for both regular starters and those with less playing time.
Adding to Alonso’s staff is Camenforte Lopez, who will serve as the head of fitness training. A 40-year-old with a substantial background, he previously spent eight years honing his skills at Barcelona’s La Masia academy before a stint with New York City FC and the Danish national team. Well-versed in the training methodologies of renowned trainer Paco Seirul-lo Vargas, Lopez emphasizes the integration of physical training with Alonso’s tactical vision. Sources close to Lopez commend his hard work and dedication, noting that he even developed a strength training app, ‘K-Forte’.
Another former La Masia coach, Encinas, joins Alonso’s team after a productive period at Bayer Leverkusen. Now 43, his professional trajectory can be traced back to his recommendation by Lopez, showcasing a collaboration between these coaches that yielded significant results during their time together.
At just 37, Labaien brings a wealth of experience, having spent formative years at Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid, along with assistant roles in Leeds United and successful contributions at Real Sociedad. Having also led Japanese side Tokushima Vortis as head coach, he has a diverse range of insights from various international environments.
Youth Integration and Future Directions
The staff’s composition is further strengthened by the addition of Celador, a long-term member of Real Madrid’s infrastructure since 2001, who has extensive familiarity with the club’s academy. His responsibilities have included coaching future stars and working closely with senior management on player development. His expertise is anticipated to address the expressed need for further integration of youth talent into the senior ranks, particularly important for blossoming players like Eduardo Camavinga and the promising Arda Guler.
Meanwhile, members of Ancelotti’s prior staff, including assistant Francesco Mauri and fitness coach Mino Fulco, have transitioned to Brazil with him. Davide Ancelotti has also left but aims to pursue his coaching career independently, with interest from clubs like Rangers and Deportivo La Coruna. Notably, goalkeeper coach Luis Llopis is expected to retain his position, reflecting continuity amid the changes.
Fitness trainer Antonio Pintus could potentially remain with the club through the Club World Cup, though there are inquiries from Juventus regarding his services. Discussions between him and Lopez have already begun to streamline their collaboration. As this new era unfolds under Alonso’s leadership, further adjustments to the coaching staff might occur as he continues to implement his vision for Real Madrid’s future.
