View source for Xabi Alonso

{{short description|Spanish football manager and player (born 1981)}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2025}}
{{good article}}
{{family name hatnote|Alonso|Olano|lang=Spanish}}
{{Infobox football biography
| name = Xabi Alonso
| image = Xabi Alonso 01.png
| caption = Alonso with [[Real Madrid CF|Real Madrid]] in 2025
| full_name = Xabier Alonso Olano<ref name="FIFA Club World Cup 25">{{cite web |url=https://fdp.fifa.org/assetspublic/ce233/pdf/SquadLists-English.pdf |title=FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ Squad List: Real Madrid C. F. (ESP) |publisher=FIFA |page= 27 |date=12 June 2025 |access-date=26 November 2025}}</ref>
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1981|11|25|df=y}}<ref name="FIFA">{{cite web|title=FIFA World Cup South Africa 2010: List of Players|url=https://www.fifa.com/mm/document/tournament/competition/01/22/85/78/fwc_2010_squadlists.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100616010702/http://www.fifa.com/mm/document/tournament/competition/01/22/85/78/fwc_2010_squadlists.pdf|url-status=dead|archive-date=16 June 2010|publisher=Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA)|access-date=13 September 2013|page=29|date=4 June 2010}}</ref>
| birth_place = [[Tolosa, Spain|Tolosa]], Spain<ref name="LFC:Profile"/>
| height = 1.83m<ref name="LFC:Profile">{{cite web|url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/team/squad/alonso/|title=Xabi Alonso: Player Profile|publisher=[[Liverpool F.C.]]|access-date=5 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090102003945/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/team/squad/alonso/|archive-date=2 January 2009}}</ref>
| position = [[Midfielder]]
| currentclub = [[Real Madrid CF|Real Madrid]] (head coach)
| youthyears1 = 1990–1999
| youthclubs1 = [[Antiguoko]]
| years1 = 1999–2000
| clubs1 = [[Real Sociedad B]]
| caps1 = 39
| goals1 = 2
| years2 = 2000–2004
| clubs2 = [[Real Sociedad]]
| caps2 = 114
| goals2 = 9
| years3 = 2000–2001
| clubs3 = → [[SD Eibar|Eibar]] (loan)
| caps3 = 14
| goals3 = 0
| years4 = 2004–2009
| clubs4 = [[Liverpool F.C.|Liverpool]]
| caps4 = 143
| goals4 = 15
| years5 = 2009–2014
| clubs5 = [[Real Madrid CF|Real Madrid]]
| caps5 = 158
| goals5 = 4
| years6 = 2014–2017
| clubs6 = [[FC Bayern Munich|Bayern Munich]]
| caps6 = 79
| goals6 = 5
| totalcaps = 547
| totalgoals = 35
| nationalyears1 = 2000
| nationalteam1 = [[Spain national under-18 football team|Spain U18]]
| nationalcaps1 = 1
| nationalgoals1 = 0
| nationalyears2 = 2002–2003
| nationalteam2 = [[Spain national under-21 football team|Spain U21]]
| nationalcaps2 = 9
| nationalgoals2 = 0
| nationalyears3 = 2001–2012
| nationalteam3 = [[Basque Country national football team|Basque Country]]
| nationalcaps3 = 5
| nationalgoals3 = 0
| nationalyears4 = 2003–2014
| nationalteam4 = [[Spain national football team|Spain]]
| nationalcaps4 = 114
| nationalgoals4 = 16
| manageryears1 = 2019–2022
| managerclubs1 = [[Real Sociedad B]]
| manageryears2 = 2022–2025
| managerclubs2 = [[Bayer 04 Leverkusen|Bayer Leverkusen]]
| manageryears3 = 2025–
| managerclubs3 = [[Real Madrid CF|Real Madrid]]
| medaltemplates = {{MedalSport|Men's [[Association football|football]]}}
{{MedalCountry|{{fb|ESP}}}}
{{MedalCompetition|[[FIFA World Cup]]}}
{{Medal|W|[[2010 FIFA World Cup|2010 South Africa]]|}}
{{MedalCompetition|[[UEFA European Championship]]}}
{{Medal|W|[[UEFA Euro 2008|2008 Austria–Switzerland]]|}}
{{Medal|W|[[UEFA Euro 2012|2012 Poland–Ukraine]]|}}
{{MedalCompetition|[[FIFA Confederations Cup]]}}
{{Medal|3rd|[[2009 FIFA Confederations Cup|2009 South Africa]]|}}
}}
'''Xabier Alonso Olano''' ({{IPA|eu|ˈʃaβi aˈlons̺o oˈlano|lang}}, {{IPA|es|ˈʃaβj aˈlonso oˈlano|lang}}; born 25 November 1981) is a Spanish professional [[Manager (association football)|football manager]] and former [[Football player|player]] who is the head coach of [[La Liga]] club [[Real Madrid CF|Real Madrid]]. Widely regarded as one of the greatest [[midfielders]] of his generation, he was known for his exceptional passing range and long-distance shooting.<ref name="bundesliga.com_1"/><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37515638/bayern-munich-midfielder-xabi-alonso-make-good-manager-pep-guardiola |title=Bayern Munich's Xabi Alonso will make a good manager – Pep Guardiola |author1=Jonathan Smith |publisher=ESPN FC |date=10 March 2017 |access-date=28 March 2019}}</ref><ref name="Sportreview">{{cite web |last1=Momblano |first1=Luca |date=22 October 2014 |title=Xabi Alonso erede totale di Pep Guardiola |trans-title=Xabi Alonso, the complete heir to Pep Guardiola. |url=https://www.sportreview.it/calcio-oggi/xabi-alonso-erede-totale-pep-guardiola |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220707162550/https://www.sportreview.it/calcio-oggi/xabi-alonso-erede-totale-pep-guardiola |archive-date=7 July 2022 |access-date=14 April 2022 |publisher=Sportreview |language=it-IT}}</ref><ref name="hitc.com">{{cite web | url = https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2015/03/13/ct-gerrard-picks-alonso-as-midfield-partner-claiming-ive-missed/ | title = Gerrard picks Alonso as best midfield partner, claiming: 'I've missed him' | publisher = hitc.com | date = 2014}}</ref><ref name="GiveMeSport">{{cite web | url=https://www.givemesport.com/greatest-footballers-of-the-decade-2010-2019/ | title = Ranking the 100 greatest footballers of the decade (2010-2020) | date = 8 November 2023 | website = givemesport.com | first = Kobe | last = Tong | access-date = 8 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Churchill |first=Max |date=2025-01-18 |title=The 10 greatest defensive midfielders in football history ranked - Rodri 8th |url=https://www.givemesport.com/greatest-defensive-midfielders-in-football-history-ranked/ |access-date=2025-09-30 |website=GiveMeSport |language=en}}</ref> Alonso is also currently considered to be one of the best young managers in the world.<ref>Multiple sources:
*{{cite web | url=https://www.givemesport.com/ten-best-young-managers-world-football-soccer/ | title = Top 10 young football managers in the world | date = 17 February 2024 | website = givemesport.com | first = Graeme | last = Bell | access-date = 24 February 2024}}
*{{cite web | url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/38686628/seven-top-young-coaches-watch-european-football | title = Seven top young coaches to watch in European football | date=19 October 2023 | website = ESPN | first = Tor-Kristian | last = Karlsen | access-date = 24 February 2024}}
*{{cite web | url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/39541498/liverpool-jurgen-klopp-xabi-alonso-standout-manager-new-generation | title=Klopp: Alonso 'standout' coach of new generation | date=17 February 2024 }}</ref>

Alonso began his career at [[Real Sociedad]], the main team of his home province [[Gipuzkoa]]. After a brief loan period at [[SD Eibar|Eibar]], he was appointed as [[Captain (association football)|team captain]] of Real Sociedad and finished runner-up in [[La Liga]] in [[2002–03 La Liga|2002–03 season]]. He moved to [[Liverpool F.C.|Liverpool]] in 2004 for [[Pound sterling|£]]10.5&nbsp;million and won the [[UEFA Champions League]] in his first season, scoring in the [[2005 UEFA Champions League final|final]]. He later won the [[UEFA Super Cup]], the [[FA Cup]] and the [[FA Community Shield]]. Alonso moved to Real Madrid in 2009 in a deal worth £30&nbsp;million and won La Liga, two [[Copa del Rey]] titles, and another UEFA Champions League. He joined German club [[FC Bayern Munich|Bayern Munich]] in 2014 and won three Bundesliga titles, including a domestic double in his second season, and retired in 2017.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0251-0e99b2382f3a-7aaf0f99afd5-1000--champions-league-100-club-xabi-alonso/ | title = Champions League 100 club: Xabi Alonso | website = [[UEFA]] | date = 14 May 2019 | access-date = 23 May 2019}}</ref>

He made his international debut for [[Spain national football team|Spain]] in April 2003 and went on to win the [[UEFA European Championship|European Championship]] twice in [[UEFA Euro 2008|2008]] and [[UEFA Euro 2012|2012]], as well as the [[2010 FIFA World Cup|2010 World Cup]]. He also represented Spain at [[UEFA Euro 2004|Euro 2004]] and the [[2006 FIFA World Cup|2006 World Cup]]. On 23 June 2012, Alonso won his 100th cap for Spain in the quarter-final of Euro 2012 against [[France national football team|France]], where he scored both goals in a 2-0 victory. Alonso retired from international football after the [[2014 FIFA World Cup|2014 World Cup]]. His 114 appearances make him the eighth-most capped player in Spain's history.

Alonso coached Real Madrid's U14 team before being appointed as manager of [[Real Sociedad B]] in 2019, where he won promotion to the [[Segunda División]] in his second season. Alonso was named head coach of [[Bayer 04 Leverkusen|Bayer Leverkusen]] in 2022 and completed an [[List of unbeaten football club seasons#Europe|unprecedented unbeaten domestic double]] in 2024, winning the club's first ever Bundesliga title and first [[DFB-Pokal]] since 1993. After two-and-a-half years with the German side, Alonso was appointed as the new head coach of his former club Real Madrid in June 2025.

==Early years==
Alonso was born in the small town of [[Tolosa, Gipuzkoa]], [[Basque Country (autonomous community)|Basque Country]], into a family known for its footballing prowess. His father, [[Miguel Ángel Alonso|Periko Alonso]], won [[La Liga]] twice in successive seasons with [[Real Sociedad]] and a third time after he joined [[FC Barcelona|Barcelona]]. He also featured in the national team, winning 21 caps over the course of his career.<ref name=GB1/>

Alonso lived in the city of [[Barcelona]] for the first six years of his life and moved to [[San Sebastián|San Sebastián (Donostia)]] thereafter. It was here that his passion for football began as he whiled away his childhood played at Playa de la Concha (Shell Beach).<ref name=GB1>{{cite news |last=Ballague |first=Guillem |title=Clever Xabi sets the pass mark |newspaper=[[The Observer]] |date=22 May 2005 |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/may/22/sport.comment |access-date=11 August 2008}}</ref> On the Basque sands, Alonso befriended a fellow resident of Calle Matia, [[Mikel Arteta]], and the two would battle each other in exhibitions of technical ability.<ref name=FieldBB>{{cite news |last=Fifield |first=Dominic |title=Arteta seeks revenge in battle of Basques |newspaper=[[The Guardian]] |date=25 March 2006 |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2006/mar/25/newsstory.sport15 |access-date=11 August 2008}}</ref> He was immersed in football and his father would often bring him and his older brother, [[Mikel Alonso|Mikel]], to [[CE Sabadell FC|Sabadell]]'s training ground to practise together. Alonso was influenced by his father's playing, taking more pleasure in passing the ball well than shooting at goal.<ref name=GB0>{{cite web |last=Balague |first=Guillem |title=Dads and Lads: Periko and Xabi Alonso |publisher=Liverpool|date=18 May 2008 |url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/drilldown/N159927080518-0840.htm |access-date=15 August 2008 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080701220709/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/drilldown/N159927080518-0840.htm |archive-date = 1 July 2008}}</ref> At an early age, he decided to play as a [[defensive midfielder]], a role which helped him learn how to distribute the ball well. This talent would later prove to be an integral part of his club and international career.<ref name=GB1/>

Alonso and Arteta were ambitious and dreamed of playing alongside each other for Real Sociedad when they were older. Though they attended different schools, the two young players joined forces at the local youth side [[Antiguoko]], playing games at the weekend.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://antiguoko.org/club-jugadores-relevantes/|title=Jugadores Relevantes|trans-title=Relevant Players|language=es|publisher=Antiguoko KE|work=Official Website|access-date=16 July 2017|archive-date=5 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171005202021/http://antiguoko.org/club-jugadores-relevantes/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Their performances attracted the attention of scouts from top Spanish sides and the young ''[[Donostia]]rras'' separated ways, ending nine years of friendly rivalry, as Alonso went to Real Sociedad and Arteta moved to [[Catalonia|Catalan]] giants [[FC Barcelona|Barcelona]].<ref name=HunterSS>{{cite news |last=Hunter |first=Andy |title=Mikel Arteta: 'It's a long way from San Sebastian...' |newspaper=[[The Independent]] |date=19 November 2005 |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/mikel-arteta-its-a-long-way-from-san-sebastian-515944.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220507/https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/mikel-arteta-its-a-long-way-from-san-sebastian-515944.html |archive-date=7 May 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |access-date=11 August 2008}}{{cbignore}}</ref> Alonso's move to Real Sociedad, however, was not a companionless one, as his older brother [[Mikel Alonso|Mikel]], who had also become an adept player, joined the club together with him.<ref name=GB1/>

==Club career==
===Real Sociedad===
Alonso quickly progressed through the [[Real Sociedad cantera|youth ranks]] and the [[reserve team]] at Real Sociedad (winning the regionalised [[Tercera División|fourth tier]] in his [[1999–2000 Tercera División#Grupo IV|single season]] with the latter) and impressed enough to earn a first team debut at the age of 18.<ref name=GB0/> He made his first senior appearance against [[CD Logroñés|Logroñés]] on 1 December 1999 in a [[Copa del Rey]] match.<ref name=LFCProfile>{{cite web |title=Xabi Alonso Profile |publisher=[[Liverpool F.C.|Liverpool]] |url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/team/squad/alonso/ |access-date=11 August 2008 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080804215916/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/team/squad/alonso/ |archive-date = 4 August 2008}}</ref> Alonso failed to make another appearance in the season but the following year brought more opportunities. At the beginning of the [[2000–01 La Liga|2000–01 season]], [[Javier Clemente]] sent him to [[Segunda División]] team [[SD Eibar|Eibar]] to gain experience. Alonso's father particularly felt the move to the smaller club improved him as a player.<ref name=GB0/> A quick turnover of managers, however, including a two-month period with Periko Alonso in charge, left Real Sociedad in a dire situation. By January 2001, Real Sociedad were bottom of the league and its new manager, [[John Toshack]], turned to the prodigious Alonso in the hope of reversing the team's fortunes. In a surprise move, the Welsh manager made the 20-year-old the team [[Captain (association football)|captain]], a position traditionally held by more senior players.<ref name=GB1/> By the end of the season, Sociedad had climbed out of the [[Relegation#Structure|relegation zone]] and finished in 14th place.<ref>{{cite web|last=Andrados |first=Juan Pedro |title=Primera División 2000/01 |publisher=[[Rec.Sport.Soccer Statistics Foundation]] |date=10 November 2001 |url=https://www.rsssf.org/tabless/span01.html |access-date=11 November 2016}}</ref> Toshack lauded Alonso, stating that the impression he had on the team was exceptional, especially for a player from the youth team.<ref name=GB1/>

Under the tutelage of John Toshack, Alonso's captaincy marked a resurgence of form for Real Sociedad. Toshack recognised Alonso's potential and invested much time in his young captain, creating a training method designed to improve his touch and control specifically for him.<ref>{{cite web |last=Abbandonato |first=Paul |title=It's the Real deal for Toshack |publisher=Wales Online ([[Western Mail (Wales)|Western Mail]]) |date=3 July 2008 |url=http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-in-wales/2008/07/03/it-s-the-real-deal-for-toshack-91466-21218919/  |access-date=12 August 2008}}</ref> The team cemented its mid-table position in the [[2001–02 La Liga|2001–02]], finishing in 13th place. Alonso appeared consistently in [[La Liga]] with 30 appearances over the course of the season and also scored his first league goal, finishing with a season total of three. Real Sociedad's management changed again in the summer of 2002 with the arrival of [[Raynald Denoueix]], but Alonso kept his place in the first team on the strength of his past performances.<ref>{{cite news |last=Lowe |first=Sid |title=Sociedad enjoy ride of their lives |newspaper=[[The Guardian]] |date=4 November 2002 |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2002/nov/04/europeanfootball.sport |access-date=11 August 2008}}</ref>

The [[2002–03 La Liga|2002–03 season]] was the club's best league performance since the [[1981–82 La Liga|1981–82 season]], in which they won the league. The Basque team finished second, two points behind [[Real Madrid CF|Real Madrid]],<ref>{{cite news |title=Real seal Spanish title |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/3007132.stm |work=BBC Sport |publisher=British Broadcasting Corporation |date=22 June 2003 |access-date=23 June 2012}}</ref> setting a club record for their highest ever points total, and qualifying for the [[UEFA Champions League]] for the first time.<ref>{{cite news |title=Champions League Soccer : Juventus and Real Sociedad show mettle |first=Rob |last=Hughes |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2003/10/02/sports/02iht-soccer_ed3_.html?pagewanted=all |work=The New York Times |date=2 October 2003 |access-date=23 June 2012}}</ref> Alonso received much praise for his role in the team's success and was given the Best Spanish Player award by Spanish sports magazine ''[[Don Balón]]''.<ref>{{cite web |last=Diaz |first=Emilio Pla |title=Spain&nbsp;– Footballer of the Year |date=28 January 2004 |website=[[RSSSF]] |url=https://www.rsssf.org/miscellaneous/spanpoy.html |access-date=12 August 2008}}</ref> In addition, Alonso significantly contributed to the team's goal tally, scoring 12 goals in all competitions.<ref name=Sinnott>{{cite news |last=Sinnott |first=John |title=Alonso the pass master |work=BBC Sport |date=21 August 2004 |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/l/liverpool/3552474.stm |access-date=12 August 2008}}</ref> His performances earned Alonso national repute and [[Iñaki Sáez]], the coach of the Spain national team, called him up for the [[Spain national football team]]. Alonso made his international debut in April 2003 in a 4–0 [[Exhibition game|friendly]] win over [[Ecuador national football team|Ecuador]].<ref name=FDB>{{cite web |title=Xabi Alonso Profile |publisher=Football Database |url=http://footballdatabase.com/index.php?page=player&Id=550&pn=Xabier_Alonso_Olona |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101215152525/http://footballdatabase.com/index.php?page=player&Id=550&pn=Xabier_Alonso_Olona |archive-date=15 December 2010 |access-date=12 August 2008}}</ref> Sáez praised Alonso, saying, "He has a fantastic range of accurate passing [and] sees football with an extraordinary clarity."<ref name=GB1/>

The [[2003–04 La Liga|2003–04 season]] comprised mixed results for Alonso and his San Sebastián club. Alonso revelled in the opportunity to perform in Europe, appearing in all the team's games, and Real Sociedad qualified for the [[Single-elimination tournament|knockout phase]] of the Champions League. The team struggled under the pressure of the extra matches, however, and were promptly knocked out of the tournament by [[Olympique Lyonnais|Lyon]] and finished 15th in La Liga.<ref name=Sinnott/> The combination of Alonso's outstanding performances and the team's poor league finish made a move away from [[Anoeta Stadium]] inevitable. Despite interest from La Liga champions Real Madrid, Alonso remained committed to Real Sociedad.<ref name=GB1/> Madrid failed to meet the [[Pound sterling|£]]13&nbsp;million price tag that [[José Luis Astiazarán]], the Real Sociedad president, had placed on Alonso and the deal reached a stalemate.<ref name=Sinnott/> Alonso had other concerns and focused on international duty with Spain at [[UEFA Euro 2004]].<ref name=FDB/> Despite the fact that Alonso's appearance at the tournament was brief, he caught the attention of retired footballer [[Jan Mølby]], who was impressed with his precise passing abilities.<ref name=GB1/>

The summer [[transfer window]] at Real Sociedad saw the arrival of Alonso's childhood friend Mikel Arteta.<ref name=Drop>{{cite news |title=Real Sociedad drop Alonso |work=BBC Sport |date=11 August 2004 |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/l/liverpool/3552128.stm |access-date=12 August 2008}}</ref> Arteta was ecstatic at the prospect of partnering Alonso in midfield, but his excitement was short-lived.<ref name=FieldBB/> Alonso was not picked for Real Sociedad's pre-season friendlies, signalling that an offer by [[Liverpool F.C.|Liverpool]] was being treated seriously.<ref name=Drop/> The Basque side announced on 20 August 2004 that they had made a deal worth £10.7&nbsp;million with Liverpool and Alonso had agreed terms with the [[Merseyside]] team.<ref name=LFCProfile/><ref name=AnfieldMove>{{cite news |title=Alonso makes Anfield move |work=BBC Sport |date=20 August 2004 |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/l/liverpool/3569648.stm |access-date=12 August 2008}}</ref> Alonso did not lament the fact that a move to Real Madrid had not materialised. Instead, he concentrated on integrating with the new Spanish contingent at Liverpool under the guidance of former [[Valencia CF|Valencia]] manager [[Rafael Benítez]].<ref name=GB1/>

===Liverpool===
====2004–05: Champions League victory====
Alonso arrived at Liverpool along with [[Luis García (footballer, born 1978)|Luis García]] from Barcelona, marking the beginning of a new era at [[Anfield]]. New Liverpool manager Rafael Benítez sought to revolutionise the club and completely overhauled the squad, impressing his own management style and tactics upon the team.<ref>{{cite news |last=Ortego |first=Enrique |title=La 'Rafalution' entra en la historia del Liverpool (''The 'Rafalution' becomes part of Liverpool history'') |newspaper=[[Diario AS]] |date=3 November 2008 |url=http://www.as.com/futbol/articulo/futbol-rafalution-entra-historia-liverpool/dasftb/20081103dasdaiftb_31/Tes |access-date=18 November 2008}}</ref> The technical Spaniards were Benítez's first signings and he remarked that their emphasis of skill over strength offered the team something different.<ref name=AnfieldMove/><ref>{{cite news |title=Liverpool grab Garcia |work=BBC Sport |date=20 August 2004 |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/l/liverpool/3582406.stm |access-date=14 August 2008}}</ref> Alonso made his [[Premier League]] debut against [[Bolton Wanderers F.C.|Bolton Wanderers]] at the [[Reebok Stadium]] on 29 August 2004.<ref name=LFCProfile/> Liverpool lost the fixture 1–0 but Alonso was already receiving praise for his passing skills from the press.<ref>{{cite news |title=Bolton 1–0 Liverpool |work=BBC Sport |date=29 August 2004 |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/3586112.stm |access-date=14 August 2008}}</ref> A [[2004–05 Premier League|Premier League]] tie away against [[Fulham F.C.|Fulham]] displayed more of Alonso's talents. Liverpool were losing 2–0 at [[half-time]] and Benítez brought on Alonso as a [[substitute (football)|substitute]] after the break. He revived a deflated Liverpool and the game finished 2–4 to the Merseyside team.<ref>{{cite news |last=Cox |first=Gerry |title=Alonso inspires a change of fortune |newspaper=[[The Observer]] |date=17 October 2004|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/oct/17/match.sport11 |access-date=14 August 2008}}</ref> Furthermore, Alonso scored his first [[Goal (sport)|goal]] for the team from a [[Direct free kick|free kick]] to bring Liverpool ahead of the opposition.<ref>{{cite news|title=Fulham 2–4 Liverpool|work=BBC Sport|date=16 October 2004 |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/3724106.stm  |access-date=14 August 2008}}</ref>

[[File:Xabi Alonso.jpg|thumb|Alonso playing against [[The New Saints F.C.|The New Saints]] in the Champions League in July 2005]]

Alonso continued to provide important goals for the club, scoring his first goal at Anfield against [[Arsenal F.C.|Arsenal]] in a 2–1 victory.<ref>{{cite news |title=Liverpool 2–1 Arsenal |work=BBC Sport |date=28 November 2004 |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4028103.stm |access-date=15 August 2008}}</ref> Alonso was elated at the achievement and felt he was settling in well in England.<ref>{{cite video |people=Xabi Alonso |date=3 December 2004 |title=Alonso happy to be at Anfield |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/player/sol/newsid_4060000/newsid_4062700/4062717.stm?bw=bb&mp=wm&news=1&bbcws=1# |format=Windows Media Player/Real Video |medium=Video |publisher=BBC Sport |access-date=15 August 2008 |time=0.05mins/2.00mins |quote=I think I'm settling quickly no? You know you come to a different country with a different culture but you have to accept all this"/"It was exciting to score at Anfield. I was looking for it and I felt great when I did, in a big game as well}}</ref> The Arsenal game marked the return of [[Steven Gerrard]] from injury but Alonso's midfield partnership with the [[Captain (association football)|team captain]] came to a halt when Alonso suffered his first setback at Liverpool. Alonso's ankle was broken following a tackle from [[Frank Lampard]] in Liverpool's 0–1 home defeat against [[Chelsea F.C.|Chelsea]] on New Year's Day 2005 and the Spaniard was ruled out of action for three months.<ref>{{cite news |title=Liverpool 0–1 Chelsea |work=BBC Sport |date=1 January 2005 |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4114653.stm |access-date=15 August 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Alonso sidelined for three months |work=BBC Sport |date=5 January 2005 |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/l/liverpool/4139747.stm |access-date=15 August 2008}}</ref>

Alonso made his return to the first team in the second leg of the [[UEFA Champions League|Champions League]] quarter-final against [[Juventus FC|Juventus]]. Alonso was not at full fitness but, as Steven Gerrard was injured, he played for the full 90 minutes and Liverpool held the score at 0–0 in Italy, defeating the eventual Italian champions on aggregate.<ref>{{cite news |title=Juventus 0–0 Liverpool |work=BBC Sport |date=13 April 2005 |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/4431795.stm |access-date=15 August 2008}}</ref> Kevin McCarra of ''[[The Guardian]]'' paid testament to Alonso's skill and dedication to the game, saying, "This marvellously accomplished footballer testified in the [[Stadio delle Alpi]] that technique can overcome a serious physical disadvantage."<ref>{{cite news |last=McCarra |first=Kevin |title=Liverpool set up Chelsea clash |newspaper=[[The Guardian]] |date=14 April 2005 |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/apr/14/match.sport1 |access-date=15 August 2008}}</ref> In the next round against Chelsea, Alonso received a [[Penalty card#Yellow card|yellow card]] in a tense and scrappy 0–0 draw at [[Stamford Bridge (stadium)|Stamford Bridge]], making him suspended for the following fixture.<ref>{{cite news |last=McCarra |first=Kevin |title=Red resistance tips the balance |newspaper=[[The Guardian]] |date=28 April 2005 |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/apr/28/match.sport1 |access-date=15 August 2008}}</ref> Alonso was distraught that he would miss the game and vehemently contested the referee's decision to no avail.<ref name=Sublime>{{cite news |last=Shaw |first=Phil |title=Alonso adds touch of the sublime to Anfield armada |work=[[The Independent]] |publisher=Independent Print Limited |date=25 May 2005 |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/alonso-adds-touch-of-the-sublime-to-anfield-armada-6145471.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140903110644/http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/alonso-adds-touch-of-the-sublime-to-anfield-armada-6145471.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=3 September 2014 |access-date=1 December 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Alonso tells of Reds heartbreak |work=BBC Sport |date=28 April 2005 |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/l/liverpool/4493135.stm |access-date=16 August 2008}}</ref> Gerrard returned from injury for the second leg, however, and the captain steered his team to a 1–0 win with the help of a Luis García goal, qualifying for the final against [[A.C. Milan|Milan]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Winter |first=Henry |title=Glorious Liverpool a big noise again |newspaper=[[The Daily Telegraph]] |date=4 May 2005 |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2359108/Glorious-Liverpool-a-big-noise-again.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220111/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2359108/Glorious-Liverpool-a-big-noise-again.html |archive-date=11 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |access-date=15 August 2008}}{{cbignore}}</ref>

Liverpool's fifth-place finish in the Premiership left much to be desired but debut season glory still awaited Alonso in the form of the [[2005 UEFA Champions League Final|Champions League final]]. The team fell three goals behind Milan but completed a dramatic second-half comeback.<ref>{{cite news |last=Keogh |first=Frank |title=Why it was the greatest cup final |work=BBC Sport|date=25 May 2005|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/4582357.stm |access-date=16 August 2008}}</ref> Liverpool, trailing 3–2, were awarded a penalty and it was decided that Alonso would take the spot kick. While [[Dida (footballer, born 1973)|Dida]], Milan's acclaimed Brazilian goalkeeper, managed to save the penalty Alonso fired the rebound into the roof of the net, bringing the score to 3–3.<ref>{{cite news |last=McCarra |first=Kevin |title=Grit, spirit and the ultimate glory |newspaper=[[The Guardian]] |date=26 May 2005 |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/may/26/match.acmilan |access-date=16 August 2008}}</ref> [[Extra time]] passed without a goal from either team and Liverpool won 3–2 in the penalty shootout.<ref>{{cite news |title=AC Milan 3–3 Liverpool (aet) |work=BBC Sport |date=25 May 2005 |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/4573159.stm |access-date=16 August 2008}}</ref> Alonso was praised for his pivotal influence on the team's comeback and manager Benítez reinforced his importance to the team.<ref>{{cite news |last=Fifield |first=Dominic |title=Gerrard inspires Liverpool by sheer willpower |newspaper=[[The Guardian]] |date=26 May 2005 |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/may/26/newsstory.championsleague |access-date=16 August 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Benítez's brave change of tack leaves Milan in reverse gear |newspaper=[[The Guardian]] |date=26 May 2005 |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/may/26/championsleague2 |access-date=16 August 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Benítez demands trophy defence for Reds |newspaper=[[The Guardian]] |date=26 May 2005|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/may/26/newsstory.championsleague200405 |access-date=16 August 2008}}</ref> Alonso was ecstatic with the win, commenting, "This is the best moment in my professional career."<ref>{{cite news |title=Benítez stunned by epic comeback |work=BBC Sport |date=26 May 2006 |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/4582585.stm |access-date=22 August 2008}}</ref> The epic night was also recalled to be the 'Miracle of Istanbul'.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/may/29/newsstory.sport12|title=The miracle of Istanbul|author=Guardian Staff|date=29 May 2005|work=The Guardian|access-date=9 March 2019|issn=0261-3077}}</ref>

====2005–06: FA Cup winner====
[[File:CK that Aronso kicks.jpg|thumb|upright=0.9|left|Alonso taking a corner kick for Liverpool in March 2006]]

Alonso was ever-present in the first team in the [[2005–06 Liverpool F.C. season|2005–06 season]], largely avoiding injuries that had marred his first season at the club. The summer [[transfer window]] brought [[Peter Crouch]] to Liverpool and the striker's height sparked accusations that the team would change to [[long ball]] tactics. Crouch denied this, highlighting that Alonso's passing ability, alongside Gerrard, would define Liverpool's style of play.<ref>{{cite news |title=Crouch defends Liverpool tactics |work=BBC Sport |date=19 September 2005 |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/l/liverpool/4261110.stm |access-date=22 August 2008}}</ref> Alonso faced more competition for his place in the form of new arrival [[Mohamed Sissoko]]. However, Steven Gerrard's injuries and Rafael Benítez's favouring of a [[4-5-1|4–5–1 formation]] ensured Alonso's place in the team. Alonso appeared in all of Liverpool's games in the [[2005–06 UEFA Champions League|Champions League]] but the dominance shown in the previous season had gone as the team lost to [[S.L. Benfica|Benfica]] in the [[2005–06 UEFA Champions League#Knockout stage|knockout stage]].

On 7 January 2006, in an [[FA Cup]] third-round tie against [[Luton Town F.C.|Luton Town]], Alonso assisted Liverpool to a 5–3 comeback victory after being down 3–1 early in the second half.<ref>{{cite web |last=Bradbury |first=Jamie |title=Reds edge classic |publisher=[[The Football Association|The FA]] |date=7 January 2006 |url=http://www.thefa.com/TheFACup/TheFACup/NewsAndFeatures/Postings/2006/01/FACup3rdRd_LutonLiverpool.htm |archive-url=https://archive.today/20081123024907/http://www.thefa.com/TheFACup/TheFACup/NewsAndFeatures/Postings/2006/01/FACup3rdRd_LutonLiverpool.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=23 November 2008 |access-date=12 November 2008}}</ref> Alonso scored two impressive goals from distance: one from 45 yards, and the other 65 yards from goal; behind the [[Association football pitch|half-way line]].<ref name=LFCProfile/><ref>{{cite news |last=McCarra |first=Kevin |title=Echoes of another epic as Liverpool forced to treat Luton like Milan |newspaper=[[The Guardian]] |date=9 January 2006 |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2006/jan/09/match.lutontown |access-date=12 November 2008}}</ref> Consequently, Alonso's goals marked a stroke of luck for a Liverpool fan who won £25,000 from a £200 bet on Alonso scoring from within his own half.<ref>{{cite news|title=Fan makes £25,000 on dream goal|work=BBC Sport|date=10 January 2006 |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/berkshire/4598198.stm|access-date=14 August 2008}}</ref> Alonso suffered an ankle injury in a 1–3 away victory over [[Portsmouth F.C.|Portsmouth]], putting his participation in the [[2006 FA Cup Final|FA Cup final]] in doubt.<ref>{{cite web |title=Portsmouth 1–3 Liverpool |work=BBC Sport |publisher=British Broadcasting Corporation |date=8 May 2006 |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4957462.stm |access-date=1 February 2011}}</ref> However, he recovered sufficiently to start the game against [[West Ham United F.C.|West Ham United]] and Gerrard scored Liverpool's third goal from Alonso's free kick, pulling the team ahead of the opposition. Alonso, still affected by the injury, could not manage the entire 90 minutes and was substituted in the second half. Liverpool won on penalties without his help but Alonso still earned his first FA Cup winners' medal.<ref>{{cite news|title=Liverpool 3–3 West Ham (aet) |work=BBC Sport|date=13 May 2006 |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/4756045.stm| access-date=22 August 2008}}</ref>

====2006–2009====
[[File:Kuyt Alonso Liverpool.jpg|thumb|Alonso and [[Dirk Kuyt]] playing for Liverpool in April 2007]]

On 20 September 2006, Alonso scored what the [[BBC]] described as "an outrageous strike" from his own half in a 2–0 Premiership win against [[Newcastle United F.C.|Newcastle United]].<ref name=70Y>{{cite news|last=Hughes|first=Ian|title=Liverpool 2–0 Newcastle|work=BBC Sport|date=20 September 2006|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/5351794.stm |access-date=14 August 2008}}</ref> Andy Hunter of ''[[The Independent]]'' described it as "one of the most audacious goals in Anfield's rich 115-year history".<ref>{{cite news |last=Hunter |first=Andy |title=Liverpool 2 Newcastle United 0: Alonso hits 70-yard wonder goal to thrill Reds |newspaper=[[The Independent]] |date=21 September 2006 |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/liverpool-2-newcastle-united-0-alonso-hits-70yard-wonder-goal-to-thrill-reds-416922.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220507/https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/liverpool-2-newcastle-united-0-alonso-hits-70yard-wonder-goal-to-thrill-reds-416922.html |archive-date=7 May 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |access-date=11 November 2008}}{{cbignore}}</ref> Alonso rebutted claims that his 70-yard goal was all down to luck and stated that he took long range shots as part of his training routine.<ref>{{cite news |last=Winrow |first=Ian |title=Alonso denies his long shots are a gamble |newspaper=[[The Daily Telegraph]] |date=22 September 2006 |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2346331/Alonso-denies-his-long-shots-are-a-gamble.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220111/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2346331/Alonso-denies-his-long-shots-are-a-gamble.html |archive-date=11 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |access-date=16 August 2008}}{{cbignore}}</ref> Despite the similarity of the goals struck from inside his own half, Alonso was in no doubt which was his best. He said, "I think this was better. The Luton goal bounced a few times, this one went quite straight. The Luton one was left-footed&nbsp;– it was different&nbsp;– but I am quite happy to score the goal."<ref>{{cite news |title=Newcastle goal my best |newspaper=[[The Daily Star (Bangladesh)|The Daily Star]] |date=22 September 2006 |url=http://www.thedailystar.net/2006/09/22/d60922041537.htm |access-date=16 August 2008}}</ref> It was his first goal for Liverpool since the goal against Luton, making distinct history as the only outfield player in modern professional football history to score two consecutive goals from inside his own half of the pitch.<ref name=70Y/>

On 8 June 2007, Alonso signed a five-year contract, stating, "I knew there was interest from other clubs but it was always my idea to stay here. I have been here for three seasons now and have such special feelings for the club and the supporters. I understand what Liverpool means to so many people. It is such a special club and I just didn't want to leave."<ref>{{cite web |title=Alonso commits to five more years at Liverpool |work=The Guardian |publisher=Guardian News and Media |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2007/jun/08/newsstory.sport |date=8 June 2007 |access-date=1 December 2011}}</ref> The 2007–08 season started well for the Spaniard: Gerrard's absence led to Alonso playing in a more advanced position and he scored twice in a 6–0 win against Premier League newcomers [[Derby County F.C.|Derby County]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Jackson |first=Jamie |title=Benítez has Liverpool dreaming of a new tilt at the title |newspaper=[[The Guardian]] |date=2 September 2007 |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2007/sep/02/match.derbycounty |access-date=15 October 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Liverpool 6 Derby County 0: Torres and Alonso lead Rams to the slaughter |first=Ronald |last=Atkin |newspaper=[[The Independent]] |date=2 September 2007 |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/liverpool-6-derby-county-0-torres-and-alonso-lead-rams-to-the-slaughter-401179.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220507/https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/liverpool-6-derby-county-0-torres-and-alonso-lead-rams-to-the-slaughter-401179.html |archive-date=7 May 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |access-date=1 December 2011}}{{cbignore}}</ref> The bright beginning was short-lived, however, as a minor injury sustained in a game against Portsmouth became aggravated in training.<ref>{{cite web |title=Bad breaks put Xabi Alonso and Daniel Agger out for six weeks |work= [[Liverpool Daily Post]] |date=20 September 2007 |url=http://www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/liverpool-fc/liverpool-fc-news/2007/09/20/bad-breaks-put-xabi-alonso-and-daniel-agger-out-for-six-weeks-64375-19818267/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120806214302/http://www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/sport/liverpool-fc/liverpool-fc-news/2007/09/20/bad-breaks-put-xabi-alonso-and-daniel-agger-out-for-six-weeks-64375-19818267/ |archive-date=6 August 2012 |access-date=15 October 2008}}</ref> The metatarsal injury forced him out of training for six weeks but his return to the first team was rushed and his injury recurred in his first game back. Alonso's determination and passion proved to be his downfall, and he later reflected, "I had been feeling a bit tired around that time because it was only my first game back and the match was very fast. But as a player you don't want to come off, particularly when the team is winning and I stayed on."<ref>{{cite web |title=Xabi Alonso speaks of his Liverpool injury hell |publisher= [[Liverpool Daily Post]] |date=19 December 2007 |url=http://www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/liverpool-fc/liverpool-fc-news/2007/12/19/xabi-alonso-speaks-of-his-liverpool-injury-hell-64375-20268762/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120806214318/http://www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/sport/liverpool-fc/liverpool-fc-news/2007/12/19/xabi-alonso-speaks-of-his-liverpool-injury-hell-64375-20268762/ |archive-date=6 August 2012 |access-date=15 October 2008}}</ref>

Alonso returned from injury at December 2007, but over the following months he increasingly faced competition for a place in midfield from [[Javier Mascherano]] and [[Lucas Leiva|Lucas]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Barrett |first=Tony |title=Steven Gerrard out of cup clash as Xabi Alonso returns |newspaper=[[Liverpool Echo]] |date=18 December 2007 |url=http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/liverpool-fc/liverpool-fc-news/2007/12/18/steven-gerrard-out-of-cup-clash-as-xabi-alonso-returns-100252-20264834/ |access-date=13 November 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Winter |first=Henry |title=Torres ensures Liverpool place in Fab Four |newspaper=[[The Daily Telegraph]]  |date=12 March 2008 |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/columnists/henrywinter/2294248/Torres-ensures-Liverpool-place-in-Fab-Four.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220111/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/columnists/henrywinter/2294248/Torres-ensures-Liverpool-place-in-Fab-Four.html |archive-date=11 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |access-date=13 November 2008}}{{cbignore}}</ref> His role in Liverpool's five-man midfield role was assured, however, as Rafael Benítez regarded him as "a top class player", stating that Alonso had the ability to change games and break down the opposition's defence.<ref>{{cite news |last=McNulty |first=Phil |title=Liverpool may fall short in title tilt |work=[[BBC Sport]] |date=14 August 2008 |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/philmcnulty/2008/08/liverpool_could_fall_short_aga.html |access-date=13 November 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Rafa Benítez: "Xabi Alonso es un jugador de clase superior" | trans-title = Xabi Alonso is a top class player |newspaper=[[Marca (newspaper)|Marca]] |date=27 October 2007 |url=http://www.marca.com/edicion/marca/futbol/internacional/es/desarrollo/1051158.html |access-date=13 November 2008|language=es}}</ref> Alonso made his 100th league appearance for Liverpool on 12 January 2008 against [[Middlesbrough F.C.|Middlesbrough]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Hassall |first=Paul |title=Xabi's sweeper dream |publisher=Liverpool |date=12 January 2008 |url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/archivedirs/news/2008/jan/14/N158402080114-1217.htm |access-date=15 December 2008 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080430152622/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/archivedirs/news/2008/jan/14/N158402080114-1217.htm |archive-date = 30 April 2008}}</ref>

The 2008 summer transfer window suggested a move away from Merseyside, as Liverpool pursued England international [[Gareth Barry]] to replace Alonso.<ref>{{cite web |title=Liverpool still want Gareth Barry |work= [[Liverpool Daily Post]] |date=29 July 2008 |url=http://www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/liverpool-fc/liverpool-fc-news/2008/07/29/liverpool-fc-still-want-gareth-barry-64375-21426760/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120806214339/http://www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/sport/liverpool-fc/liverpool-fc-news/2008/07/29/liverpool-fc-still-want-gareth-barry-64375-21426760/ |archive-date=6 August 2012 |access-date=6 October 2008}}</ref> By the start of the 2008–09 season, neither Alonso or Barry had moved club but the drawn-out transfer saga had left the Spaniard feeling unsettled at Liverpool and unsure of his position in the team.<ref>{{cite news |last=Barrett |first=Chris |title=Juventus end pursuit of Alonso |newspaper=[[The Guardian]] |date=16 July 2008 |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2008/jul/16/liverpool.premierleague |access-date=6 October 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Alonso admits summer sorrow |work=[[Sky Sports]] |date=4 October 2008 |url=http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_4243844,00.html |access-date=6 October 2008}}</ref> However, the club's fans did much to restore his spirits, supporting him on and off the pitch, and Alonso responded to this, saying:

:[The fans] couldn't have done more to show me how they felt... If I went out for lunch or a coffee, there was always someone who would come over and say, 'We'd love you to stay'. I'm just glad that, in the end, nothing came of it [the transfer] because it wasn't something I ever asked for.<ref name=Adoptedson>{{cite news |last=Taylor |first=Daniel |title=The adopted son they couldn't drive away |newspaper=[[The Guardian]] |date=4 October 2009 |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2008/oct/04/premierleague.liverpool |access-date=6 October 2008}}</ref>

Despite the events of the summer, Alonso made a confident start to the season and both his peers and the press praised his strength of character, citing his influence as a factor in the team's strong opening to the season.<ref name=Adoptedson/><ref>{{cite web |title=Gerrard tribute to Xabi Alonso |publisher=Liverpool |date=15 September 2008 |url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/media-watch/gerrard-tribute-to-xabi-alonso |access-date=1 December 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120804140937/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/media-watch/gerrard-tribute-to-xabi-alonso |archive-date=4 August 2012}}</ref> Alonso's importance to the team was further underlined when he scored the only goal, through a deflection, in a 0–1 victory against Chelsea, making Liverpool the first away team to win at Stamford Bridge in over four years.<ref>{{cite web |title=Alonso Fires Reds Clear at the Top |publisher=Liverpool |date=26 October 2008 |url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/match/season/2008-2009/oct//681/finalwhistle.htm |access-date=4 November 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081030084318/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/match/season/2008-2009/oct/681/finalwhistle.htm |archive-date=30 October 2008}}</ref> Statistical analysis reflected Alonso's good form: on 11 December, figures from [[Opta Sports]] revealed that he was the first Premier League player to complete 1,000 successful passes in the season.<ref>{{cite web |last=Rice |first=Jimmy |title=Xabi's 1,000 passes |publisher=Liverpool |date=11 December 2008 |url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/xabi-s-1-000-passes |access-date=1 December 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120907140145/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/xabi-s-1-000-passes |archive-date=7 September 2012}}</ref> His last goal for Liverpool came in their 1–3 away win at [[Hull City A.F.C.|Hull City]] on 25 April, striking after his free kick deflected off the Hull wall.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Sanghera|first1=Mandeep|title=Hull 1–3 Liverpool|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/8000571.stm|access-date=29 August 2014|work=BBC Sport|date=25 April 2009}}</ref>

===Real Madrid===
====2009–10 season====
[[File:Xabi Alonso 48609.jpg|thumb|Alonso playing for Real Madrid in February 2012]]

Alonso completed his £30&nbsp;million move to [[Real Madrid CF|Real Madrid]] on 5 August 2009.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/l/liverpool/8184444.stm |title=Alonso completes £30m Real move |work=BBC Sport |date=5 August 2009 |access-date=25 April 2011}}</ref> It has been suggested that he never wanted to leave the Anfield club, with his contract existing until at least 2012, and that his departure was due to differences with Benítez.<ref>{{cite news |last=Pearce |first=James|title=Liverpool's Xabi Alonso hands in transfer request|newspaper=[[Liverpool Echo]]| url= http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/liverpool-fc/liverpool-fc-news/2009/07/30/liverpool-fc-s-xabi-alonso-hands-in-transfer-request-100252-24275822/|access-date=30 July 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Eaton|first=Paul|title=Liverpool agree Alonso Deal|publisher= Liverpool |url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/liverpool-agree-alonso-deal|access-date=1 December 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100717183353/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/liverpool-agree-alonso-deal|archive-date=17 July 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/l/liverpool/8184444.stm |title=Alonso completes £30m Real move |work=[[BBC Sport]] |date=5 August 2009 |access-date=5 August 2009}}</ref> Former teammate Steven Gerrard said he was "devastated" by Alonso's decision, and cited his departure as one of the reasons behind Liverpool's poor run of form at the start of the following season.<ref>{{cite web|title=Gerrard 'devastated' by Alonso exit|publisher=[[Soccernet]]|url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=693666&sec=england&cc=5901|access-date=4 March 2009|archive-date=9 November 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091109180917/http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=693666&sec=england&cc=5901|url-status=dead}}</ref>

Alonso was given the number 22 jersey in Madrid and played in a holding midfield position. He scored his first goal for his new team on 21 February 2010, a penalty against [[Villarreal CF|Villarreal]] in a 6–2 win.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.espnfc.com/gamecast/275756/gamecast.html|title=Real Madrid 6&nbsp;– 2 Villarreal|date=21 February 2010|work=ESPN|access-date=29 July 2014}}</ref> Unless he was injured or suspended, [[Manuel Pellegrini]] started Alonso in every match of the Champions League and in La Liga in his first season at Real Madrid.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/players/stats?id=13842&cc=3888 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120717005644/http://soccernet.espn.go.com/players/stats?id=13842&cc=3888 |url-status=dead |archive-date=17 July 2012 |title=Xabi Alonso statistics |work=ESPN Soccernet |access-date=19 May 2010 }}</ref> In La Liga, he helped the club finish with a club-record 96 points, three points behind winners Barcelona.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/tables?league=esp.1&season=2009&seasonType=1&cc=3888 |title=Spanish Primera División Table 2009-2010 |work=ESPN Soccernet |access-date=19 May 2010 |archive-date=21 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121021093623/http://soccernet.espn.go.com/tables?league=esp.1&season=2009&seasonType=1&cc=3888 |url-status=dead }}</ref> It was the third time in Alonso's career that he helped his team set a new club record in terms of points gathered, while finishing in second position (he achieved the same feat with Real Sociedad in 2002–03 and with Liverpool in 2008–09). During his first season at Real Madrid, Alonso scored three goals and was considered one of the club's "most consistent" players.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story?id=787862&sec=europe&root=europe&cc=3888 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100522034339/http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story?id=787862&sec=europe&root=europe&cc=3888 |archive-date=22 May 2010 |title= At the end of the day... |author=Ball, Phil |date=17 May 2010 |work= ESPN Soccernet |access-date=19 May 2010}}</ref> 

Readers of ''[[Marca (newspaper)|Marca]]'' made Alonso part of its ''La Liga'' team of the season, as their choice [[defensive midfielder]]; the only other Real Madrid player featured was [[Cristiano Ronaldo]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Seis azulgranas, en el once ideal de la Liga |trans-title=Six Barça players in the La Liga Team of the Season. |url=http://www.marca.com/2010/05/18/futbol/1adivision/1274200043.html?a=ddf97ad21ca867da264b51a1a804ee17&t=1274206042 |access-date=19 May 2010 |newspaper=Marca}}</ref> Alonso received the same accolade from [[ESPN FC|ESPN Soccernet]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story?id=786445&sec=soccernetawards&root=soccernetawards&cc=3888 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100520065116/http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story?id=786445&sec=soccernetawards&root=soccernetawards&cc=3888 |archive-date=20 May 2010 |title=La Liga Team of the Season |author=Alvarez, Eduardo |work=ESPN Soccernet |date=17 May 2010 |access-date=19 May 2010}}</ref> He was also a nominee in the [[LFP Awards]], awards given out by the [[Liga de Fútbol Profesional]], the Spanish Football league. Alonso was nominated in the Best Midfielder category, alongside [[Xavi (footballer, born 1980)|Xavi]] and [[Javi Martínez]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.lfp.es/Default.aspx?tabid=73&Controltype=dn&IDNoticia=5585 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120603162721/http://www.lfp.es/Default.aspx?tabid=73&Controltype=dn&IDNoticia=5585 |archive-date=3 June 2012 |title=Finalistas Premios LPF |work=LFP |access-date=15 July 2010}}</ref> Several members of the Spanish press, as well as a number of Real Madrid supporters, gave Alonso a new nickname during the season: ''La Barba Roja'' ("The Red Beard").<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.elpais.com/articulo/deportes/Capitan/brazalete/elpepidep/20100223elpepidep_7/Tes |title=Capitán sin brazalete |author=Torres, Diego |newspaper=El Pais |date=23 February 2010 |access-date=19 May 2010}}</ref>

====2010–14: Champions League victory====
[[File:Xabi Alonso (Real Valladolid-Real Madrid).jpg|thumb|upright=0.85|Alonso with Real Madrid in 2014]]

Alonso's second season at Real Madrid started with the arrival of a new manager, [[José Mourinho]]. He was given the number 14 jersey after the departure of vice-captain [[Guti (Spanish footballer)|Guti]].<ref>{{cite web |first=Ollie |last=Irish |url=http://www.whoateallthepies.tv/kits/37525/cristiano-ronaldo-takes-rauls-no-7-shirt-at-real-madrid-benzema-moves-to-no-9-xabi-alonso-takes-no-14.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100806041418/http://www.whoateallthepies.tv/kits/37525/cristiano-ronaldo-takes-rauls-no-7-shirt-at-real-madrid-benzema-moves-to-no-9-xabi-alonso-takes-no-14.html |url-status=usurped |archive-date=6 August 2010 |title=Cristiano Ronaldo Takes Raul's No.7 Shirt at Real Madrid, Benzema Moves To No.9, Xabi Alonso Takes No.14 |publisher=Whoateallthepies.tv |access-date=1 December 2011}}</ref> He scored his only goal of the season against [[Real Murcia]] in the [[2010-11 Copa del Rey|Copa del Rey]], and helped the team win the Copa del Rey for the first time in 18 years.

Alonso began his third season at Madrid by scoring the second goal in a 2–2 draw against Barcelona in the [[2011 Supercopa de España]] at the [[Santiago Bernabéu Stadium]]. On 21 September 2011, he played his 100th official game for Real Madrid in the 0–0 draw against [[Racing de Santander]]. Alonso claimed the first league title of his career.

On 8 January 2014, Alonso signed a contract extension with Real Madrid, which would have kept him at the club until 2016.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1915783-xabi-alonso-reportedly-signs-2-year-contract-with-real-madrid|title=Xabi Alonso Signs 2-Year Contract with Real Madrid|date=8 January 2014|access-date=11 January 2014|work=[[Bleacher Report]]}}</ref> On 29 April 2014, Real Madrid defeated [[FC Bayern Munich|Bayern Munich]] 4–0 in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final to qualify for the [[2014 UEFA Champions League Final|final]] on a 5–0 aggregate win.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2014/4/29/5665552/bayern-munich-vs-real-madrid-2014-uefa-champions-league-final-score-result|title=Bayern Munich vs. Real Madrid: Final score 0–4 (0–5 aggregate), Blancos overwhelm Bayern, advance to the final|date=29 April 2014|work=[[SB Nation]]|access-date=30 April 2014}}</ref> Alonso received a yellow card after a sliding tackle on [[Bastian Schweinsteiger]] in the first half; as he already had two before the match, this ruled him out of the final.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/27193338|title=Bayern Munich 0 Real Madrid 4|date=29 April 2014|work=BBC Sport|access-date=30 April 2014}}</ref> He claimed his second Champions League winners medal as Real defeated [[Atlético Madrid]] 4–1 in extra time.

===Bayern Munich===
[[File:CSKA-Bavaria (1).jpg|thumb|left|upright=0.7|Alonso playing for Bayern against [[PFC CSKA Moscow|CSKA Moscow]] in 2014]]

On 29 August 2014, Alonso moved to [[FC Bayern Munich|Bayern Munich]] on a two-year deal for an undisclosed fee.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.fcbayern.de/en/news/news/2014/xabi-alonso-signs-for-bayern-290814.php | title = Xabi Alonso completes Bayern switch | date = 29 August 2014 | access-date = 29 August 2014 | work = fcbayern.de | publisher = FC Bayern Munich}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2014/08/official-announcement-xabi-alonso|title=Official announcement: Xabi Alonso|date=29 August 2014|work=realmadrid.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Xabi Alonso: Bayern Munich sign Real Madrid player|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/28964916|access-date=29 August 2014|work=BBC Sport|date=29 August 2014}}</ref> He made his debut the following day, starting in a 1–1 draw at [[FC Schalke 04|Schalke 04]].<ref>{{cite news|last1=Coleman|first1=Tom|title=Schalke 1–1 Bayern Munich: Howedes seals controversial point for hosts|url=http://www.goal.com/en-gb/match/schalke-04-vs-bayern-m%C3%BCnchen/1713403/report?ICID=MP_MS_5|access-date=31 August 2014|work=Goal.com|date=30 August 2014}}</ref> On 27 September 2014, in the match against [[1. FC Köln]], Alonso broke the record for most passes completed in a [[Bundesliga]] game, with 196.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Reilly|first1=Garry|title=5 Incredible Stats That Show How Important Xabi Alonso Is For Bayern Munich|url=http://balls.ie/football/5-incredible-stats-show-important-xabi-alonso-bayern-munich/|website=Balls.ie| date = 1 October 2014 | access-date = 2 October 2014}}</ref> He scored his first goal for the club on 18 October 2014, a free kick in a 6–0 win over [[SV Werder Bremen|Werder Bremen]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Bayern Mun 6–0 SV Werder Bremen|url= https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/29657702 |access-date=19 October 2014|work=BBC Sport|date=18 October 2014}}</ref>

In his 100th Champions League appearance, on 17 February 2015, Alonso was sent-off for a second bookable offence in a 0–0 draw against [[FC Shakhtar Donetsk|Shakhtar Donetsk]].<ref>{{cite news|last1=Reddy|first1=Luke|title=Shakhtar Donetsk v Bayern Munich|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/live/football/31508728|access-date=17 February 2015|work=BBC Sport|date=17 February 2015}}</ref> On 28 April, he was one of four Bayern players, all [[FIFA World Cup]] winners, to miss in a 2–0 penalty shootout defeat to [[Borussia Dortmund]] in the [[2014–15 DFB-Pokal|DFB-Pokal]] semi-final.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/live/football/32483389|title=Bayern Munich 1–1 Borussia Dortmund|date=29 April 2015|work=BBC}}</ref> He was also the only player to miss as the club lost the shootout at the end of the [[2015 DFL-Supercup]] away to [[VfL Wolfsburg]], his attempt being saved by goalkeeper [[Koen Casteels]].<ref>{{cite news|last1=Schaerlaeckens|first1=Leander|title=Nicklas Bendtner emerges as Wolfsburg's unlikely hero in DFL-Supercup|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/soccer-fc-yahoo/nicklas-bendtner-wolfsburg-bayern-dfl-supercup-225044544.html|access-date=2 August 2015|publisher=Yahoo|date=1 August 2015}}</ref>

Alonso signed a new contract with Bayern on 18 December 2015, keeping him at the club until 2017.<ref>{{cite news |date=18 December 2015 |title=Der FC Bayern verlängert mit vier Superstars |trans-title=FC Bayern extends contracts with four superstars. |url=https://www.welt.de/sport/article150112292/Der-FC-Bayern-verlaengert-mit-vier-Superstars.html |access-date=21 December 2015 |newspaper=Die Welt |language=de}}</ref> On 9 March 2017, Alonso confirmed via [[Twitter]] his retirement from the game at the end of the 2016–17 season.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://twitter.com/XabiAlonso/status/839777479426510848|title=Xabi Alonso on Twitter|date=9 March 2017|access-date=9 March 2017|publisher=Twitter}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11890/10795410/xabi-alonso-to-retire-at-end-of-season|title=Xabi Alonso to retire at end of season|date=9 March 2017|access-date=9 March 2017|publisher=SkySports}}</ref> He and Bayern captain [[Philipp Lahm]] played their final professional game on 20 May, in a 4–1 victory at home to Freiburg in which he assisted the opening goal for [[Arjen Robben]]. He was substituted off in the 82nd minute for [[Franck Ribéry]].<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.rsssf.org/players/xabialonsodata.html | title = Xabi Alonso Olano – Matches and Goals in Bundesliga | first = Matthias | last = Arnhold | date = 28 June 2017 | website = [[RSSSF]] | access-date = 5 July 2017 }}</ref>

==International career==
[[File:Xabi Alonso Euro 2012 vs France 02.jpg|thumb|upright=0.8|Alonso playing against [[France national football team|France]] at [[UEFA Euro 2012|Euro 2012]]]]

===Euro 2004===
Alonso was first called up for the [[Spain national football team]] by manager [[Iñaki Sáez]] for a [[Exhibition game|friendly]] against [[Ecuador national football team|Ecuador]] on 30 April 2003, aged 21.<ref>{{cite news |title=Xabi Alonso: "Espero aprovechar esta oportunidad"|trans-title=Xabi Alonso: "I hope to make the most of this opportunity" |url=https://as.com/futbol/2003/04/24/mas_futbol/1051135217_850215.html |access-date=16 December 2023 |work=Diario AS |date=24 April 2003 |language=Spanish}}</ref> He started in the 4–0 win at the [[Vicente Calderón Stadium]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Xabi Alonso, la elegancia de la selección|trans-title=Xabi Alonso, the elegance of the national team|url=https://www.rtve.es/deportes/20140827/xabi-alonso-elegancia-seleccion/1000643.shtml |access-date=16 December 2023 |publisher=RTVE |date=27 August 2014 |language=Spanish}}</ref>

Sáez named Alonso in the [[UEFA Euro 2004]] squad in Portugal.<ref>{{cite news |title=Spain on the defensive for finals |url=https://edition.cnn.com/2004/SPORT/football/05/20/euro.spain/ |access-date=16 December 2023 |publisher=CNN |date=20 May 2004 |archive-date=16 December 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231216132508/https://edition.cnn.com/2004/SPORT/football/05/20/euro.spain/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> He was a substitute in the win over [[Russia national football team|Russia]], and started the defeat to [[Portugal national football team|the hosts]], in a group stage exit.<ref>{{cite news |title=Spain 1–0 Russia |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/euro_2004/3787463.stm |access-date=16 December 2023 |publisher=BBC Sport |date=12 June 2004}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Spain 0–1 Portugal |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/euro_2004/3787483.stm |access-date=16 December 2023 |publisher=BBC Sport |date=20 June 2004}}</ref>

===2006 World Cup===
Alonso was named in the Spanish squad for the [[2006 FIFA World Cup]] and he scored Spain's first goal of the tournament, his first international goal, against [[Ukraine national football team|Ukraine]] on 14 June 2006.<ref>{{cite news |last=Bulman |first=Erica |title=David Villa scores twice as Spain reigns over Ukraine 4–0 |newspaper=[[USA Today]] |date=14 June 2006 |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/soccer/worldcup/2006-06-14-spain-ukraine_x.htm |access-date=22 August 2008}}</ref> After Spain won all their games of the [[2006 FIFA World Cup Group H|group phase]], they were beaten by the eventual finalists [[France national football team|France]] in the first [[2006 FIFA World Cup knockout stage|knockout stage]] of the tournament.<ref>{{cite news |title=Spain 1–3 France |work=BBC Sport |date=26 July 2007 |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/4991524.stm |access-date=22 August 2008}}</ref>

===Euro 2008===
[[2007–08 Liverpool F.C. season|Liverpool's 2007–08 season]] finished trophyless but the opportunity to win honours awaited Alonso in the form of the [[UEFA Euro 2008|Euro 2008]] tournament. Alonso featured mainly as a substitute but, with key players resting, he captained Spain in the final group game against [[Greece national football team|Greece]], earning the [[man of the match]] award.<ref>{{cite news |last=Baskett |first=Simon |title=Second string Spain too good for Greece |work=Reuters |date=18 June 2008 |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/sportsNews/idUSL1867995520080618?sp=true |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090110051538/http://www.reuters.com/article/sportsNews/idUSL1867995520080618?sp=true |url-status=dead |archive-date=10 January 2009 |access-date=15 December 2008}}</ref> Despite a strong performance, he could not attain a starting position in the team, highlighting Spain's strength in depth.<ref>{{cite news |last=Taylor |first=Daniel |title=Second-string Alonso displays class of Spanish squad |newspaper=[[The Guardian]] |date=19 June 2008 |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2008/jun/19/euro2008.euro2008groupd1 |access-date=15 December 2008}}</ref> Spain went on to win the tournament and he featured in four of their six matches.<ref name=SpainStats>{{cite web |title=Xabi Alonso Player Profile Euro 2008 |publisher=[[Sky Sports]] |url=http://www.skysports.com/football/euro2008/player-profiles/0,23132,12024_90026,00.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100402194102/http://www.skysports.com/football/euro2008/player-profiles/0,23132,12024_90026,00.html |archive-date=2 April 2010 |access-date=13 November 2008}}</ref> Speaking to Spanish journalist [[Guillem Balagué]], he said that Spain's victory was deserved and the players' teamwork had been crucial to the team's undefeated run in the tournament. Alonso was ecstatic at the achievement, stating, "It's incredible and we're all walking around in a dream. It's fantastic."<ref>{{cite web |last=Balagué |first=Guillem |title=Exclusive Interview: Xabi Alonso |publisher=[[Guillem Balagué]] |date=30 June 2008 |url=http://www.guillembalague.com/interview_desp.php?id=14&titulo=Exclusive%20Interview:%20Xabi%20Alonso |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120223101615/http://www.guillembalague.com/interview_desp.php?id=14&titulo=Exclusive%20Interview:%20Xabi%20Alonso |archive-date=23 February 2012 |access-date=4 November 2008}}</ref> Alonso scored twice in a 3–0 win in a friendly against [[Denmark national football team|Denmark]] on 20 August.<ref>{{cite news |last=McLaughlin |first=Kim |title=UPDATE 1-Soccer-Alonso double helps Spain ease past Denmark |work=Reuters |date=20 August 2008 |url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/worldFootballNews/idUKLK00223720080820?rpc=401&=undefined&sp=true |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090111230715/http://uk.reuters.com/article/worldFootballNews/idUKLK00223720080820?rpc=401&=undefined&sp=true |url-status=dead |archive-date=11 January 2009 |access-date=22 August 2008}}</ref>

===2009 Confederations Cup===
At the [[2009 FIFA Confederations Cup]] in South Africa, Spain were eliminated in the semi-finals by the [[United States men's national soccer team|United States]]. In the third-place play-off against [[South Africa national football team|the hosts]], the game went to extra time after finishing 2–2; Alonso scored a free kick in the 107th minute to win the game.<ref>{{cite news |title=Spain see off South Africa in extra-time to finish third in Confederations Cup |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2009/jun/28/spain-south-africa-confederations-cup |access-date=16 December 2023 |work=The Guardian |date=28 June 2009}}</ref>

===2010 World Cup===
Alonso started every game for Spain during the [[2010 FIFA World Cup|2010 tournament]], playing alongside [[Sergio Busquets]] and [[Xavi (footballer, born 1980)|Xavi]] in midfield and helping his side to lift their first [[FIFA World Cup|World Cup]] trophy.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/statisticsandrecords/players/player=207528/index.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080612172658/http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/statisticsandrecords/players/player=207528/index.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=12 June 2008 |title= FIFA player Statistics: XABI ALONSO |publisher=[[FIFA]]}}</ref> In the 28th minute of the final against the [[Netherlands national football team|Netherlands]], he received a "[[Kung fu]]-style" kick to the chest from Dutch midfielder [[Nigel de Jong]], the foul was controversial since it appeared to be a foul worthy of a straight red, but was only ruled out to be a yellow card given by referee [[Howard Webb]]. This left Alonso in pain and in fear of a broken rib.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dailyexpress.co.uk/posts/view/186572/Xabi-Alonso-in-broken-rib-fear-/ |title=Xabi Alonso in broken rib fear |publisher=the Daily and Sunday Express |author=Joyce, Paul |access-date=15 July 2010}}</ref> Despite this pain, he continued playing on for another hour.

===Euro 2012===
[[File:Xabi Alonso goal celebration Euro 2012 vs France.jpg|thumb|Alonso celebrates scoring against [[France national football team|France]] at [[UEFA Euro 2012]]]]

On 23 June 2012, Alonso played his 100th match for Spain<ref>{{cite news| url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/euro-2012/top-stories/Xabi-Alonso-fires-Spain-to-Euro-2012-semifinals/articleshow/14365126.cms |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120625042250/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/euro-2012/top-stories/Xabi-Alonso-fires-Spain-to-Euro-2012-semifinals/articleshow/14365126.cms |archive-date=25 June 2012 | title= Xabi Alonso fires Spain to Euro 2012 semifinals| date=24 June 2012}}</ref> in the quarter-finals against France in which he scored both goals in a 2–0 victory. The first goal came after he headed a cross from the left flank delivered by [[Jordi Alba]], while the second one came from a penalty kick given after [[Pedro (footballer, born 1987)|Pedro]] was fouled by [[Anthony Réveillère]] in the dying seconds of the match.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/18355234|title=Spain 2–0 France|work=BBC Sport|author1=Mandeep Sanghera|date=23 June 2012|access-date=26 January 2017}}</ref> Alonso's penalty in the semi-final shoot-out against Portugal was saved by [[Rui Patrício]] in which Spain went on to win 4–2 after a 0–0 draw in the game itself.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/euro-2012/euro-2012-defending-champion-spain-advances-final-beating-portugal-4-2-penalties-article-1.1103477 |title=Euro 2012: Defending champion Spain advances to another final after beating Portugal 4–2 on penalties |work=Daily News|location=New York |date=27 June 2012 |access-date=28 June 2012}}</ref> Spain went on to beat [[Gianluigi Buffon]] and [[Italy national football team|Italy]] 4–0 in the finals; this was Alonso's third major title win with Spain.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/18355496|title=Spain 4–0 Italy|work=BBC Sport|author1=Phil McNulty|date=1 July 2012|access-date=4 May 2015}}</ref>

===2014 World Cup===
Spain were again amongst the favourites for victory in the [[2014 FIFA World Cup]], but were eliminated in the first round. Alonso scored a penalty in the 27th minute of their first match against the Netherlands, though he was substituted in the 62nd minute with Spain down 2–1 before losing 5–1. Spain then lost 2–0 to [[Chile national football team|Chile]], in which Alonso received a yellow card in the first-half and was substituted at half-time with the score already at 2–0. Spain were then eliminated from the tournament but did win their final match 3–0 against [[Australia men's national soccer team|Australia]] and finished third in the group; Alonso played 83 minutes in the match.

Alonso retired from international football on 27 August 2014.<ref>{{cite news|title=Xabi Alonso: Real Madrid midfielder retires from Spain duty|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/28959560|work=BBC Sport|access-date=27 August 2014|date=27 August 2014}}</ref>

===Basque Country===
[[File:Alonso Basque.jpg|thumb|Alonso playing for Basque Country in a friendly match against [[Tunisia national football team|Tunisia]]]]

Alonso made his debut for the [[Basque Country national football team|Basque Country national team]] in a [[Exhibition game|friendly]] against [[Ghana national football team|Ghana]] on 29 December 2001<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.eff-fvf.org/pub/verFichaPartido.asp?idioma=ca&idPartido=141 |title=Euskadi-Ghana |work=Euskadiko Futbol Federakundea |date=29 December 2001 |access-date=30 August 2014 |archive-date=3 September 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140903183434/http://www.eff-fvf.org/pub/verFichaPartido.asp?idioma=ca&idPartido=141 |url-status=dead }}</ref> and received regular call ups since, while&nbsp;– due to his busy club schedule&nbsp;– not always being able to appear. Most recently, Alonso appeared for Basque on 29 December 2012 in a 6–1 victory over [[Bolivia national football team|Bolivia]].<ref>{{cite web |date=20 December 2012 |title=La Euskal Selekzioa arrolla a Bolivia |trans-title=The Basque National Team crushes Bolivia. |url=http://eff-fvf.org/pub/noticiaAmpliada.asp?idioma=ca&idnoticia=1488&gruponoticia=11 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140903182828/http://eff-fvf.org/pub/noticiaAmpliada.asp?idioma=ca&idnoticia=1488&gruponoticia=11 |archive-date=3 September 2014 |access-date=30 August 2014 |work=Euskadiko Futbol Federakundea}}</ref>

==Style of play==
A consistent and hardworking midfielder, Alonso is regarded as one of the best midfielders of his generation, and was effective both creatively and defensively.<ref name="bundesliga.com_1">{{cite web | url = http://www.bundesliga.com/en/liga/news/2014/0000303084.php | title = Xabi Alonso: FC Bayern's indisputable Ballmagnet | publisher = bundesliga.com | date = 28 September 2014 | access-date = 3 December 2014 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141003081720/http://www.bundesliga.com/en/liga/news/2014/0000303084.php | archive-date = 3 October 2014 | df = dmy-all}}</ref>

With good technique, excellent vision, and varied passing range, he excelled in the [[Midfielder#Central midfielder|centre]] in a [[Playmaker#Deep-lying playmakers|deep-lying playmaking]] role, where he utilized his accurate [[Long ball (Football)|long passing]] ability to create goal scoring chances for teammates;<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.espnfc.com/blog/espn-fc-united-blog/68/post/2103551/xabi-alonso-provides-the-tempo-that-makes-bayerns-jazz-flow | title = Xabi Alonso provides the tempo that makes Bayern's jazz flow | publisher = ESPN FC | date = 22 October 2014 | access-date = 3 December 2014 | first = Raphael | last = Honigstein}}</ref> he also utilized a powerful and accurate shot from distance, and he was an effective [[Set piece (football)|set-piece]] and [[Penalty kick (association football)|penalty kick]] taker.<ref name="bundesliga.com_1" /><ref>{{cite web |last=D'Alessio |first=Stefano |date=16 April 2012 |title=Campioni ai Raggi X: Xabi Alonso e l'arte del passaggio |trans-title=Champions Under the X-Ray: Xabi Alonso and the art of passing. |url=http://www.calciomercato.it/news/153706/Campioni-ai-Raggi-X-Xabi-Alonso-e-larte-del-passaggio.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150203083426/http://www.calciomercato.it/news/153706/Campioni-ai-Raggi-X-Xabi-Alonso-e-larte-del-passaggio.html |archive-date=3 February 2015 |access-date=3 December 2014 |publisher=calciomercato.it |language=it}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Pedullà |first=Alfredo |date=17 November 2013 |title=Pirlo e Xabi Alonso: vietato fare confusione. Inter-Milan e la potenziale nuova mappa dei direttori, Sabatini in testa. Lodi, uno da Toro. Leonardi da applausi. La tessera del tifoso: qualcuno paghi |trans-title=Pirlo and Xabi Alonso: don’t mix them up. Inter-Milan and the potential new map of directors, with Sabatini leading the way. Lodi, a perfect fit for Torino. Applause for Leonardi. The fan ID card: someone should pay. |url=http://www.tuttomercatoweb.com/editoriale/pirlo-e-xabi-alonso-vietato-fare-confusione-inter-milan-e-la-potenziale-nuova-mappa-dei-direttori-sabatini-in-testa-lodi-uno-da-toro-leonardi-da-appla-502420 |access-date=3 December 2014 |publisher=tuttomercatoweb.com |language=it}}</ref> Due to his height, positioning, and physical characteristics, Alonso was also effective in the air, often contributing with headed goals from set pieces when he advanced into more offensive positions.<ref>{{cite news |date=23 June 2012 |title=Spagna, ci pensa Xabi Alonso Francia spenta ed eliminata |trans-title=Spain, Xabi Alonso takes care of it – France dull and eliminated. |url=http://www.gazzetta.it/Europei/2012/23-06-2012/spagna-ci-pensa-xabi-alonso-francia-spenta-ed-eliminata-911621155933.shtml |access-date=3 December 2014 |newspaper=La Gazzetta dello Sport |language=it}}</ref>

In addition to his creative attributes, he was also capable of excelling as a [[defensive midfielder]] due to his strength and powerful physique, combined with his tenacity, tactical intelligence, aggressive tackling and his ability to read the game.<ref name="bundesliga.com_1" /><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.ilpost.it/2014/10/21/roma-bayern-monaco/ | title = Roma-Bayern Monaco, stasera | language = it | publisher = ilpost.it | date = 21 October 2014 | access-date = 3 December 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=24 June 2012 |title=La Spagna gioca da sola contro la Francia e si merita la semifinale |trans-title=Spain plays alone against France and deserves the semifinal. |url=http://www.ilfoglio.it/articoli/v/103382/rubriche/la-spagna-gioca-da-sola-contro-la-francia-e-si-merita-la-semifinale.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150203094818/http://www.ilfoglio.it/articoli/v/103382/rubriche/la-spagna-gioca-da-sola-contro-la-francia-e-si-merita-la-semifinale.htm |archive-date=3 February 2015 |access-date=3 December 2014 |publisher=Il Foglio |language=it}}</ref> He was at times criticised, however, for occasionally committing rash challenges and for his tendency to lose his composure and pick up unnecessary cards for particularly hard fouls.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2045834-xabi-alonso-suspended-for-champions-league-final-after-yellow-card | title = Xabi Alonso Slams UEFA Rule After Earning Suspension for Champions League Final | publisher = bleacherreport.com | date = 29 April 2014 | access-date = 3 December 2014 | first = Tim | last = Keeney}}</ref>

Regarding Alonso's playing style, [[Jonathan Wilson (writer)|Jonathan Wilson]] noted in a 2013 article for ''[[The Guardian]]'' that he was an example of a more creative interpreter of the holding midfield role, who, "although capable of making tackles, focused on keeping the ball moving, occasionally raking long passes out to the flanks to change the angle of attack like an old-style regista."<ref name="WilsonHolding13">{{Cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2013/dec/18/question-holding-midfielders-changing-role|title=The Question: what does the changing role of holding midfielders tell us?|last=Wilson|first=Jonathan|author-link=Jonathan Wilson (writer)|date=18 December 2013|work=[[The Guardian]]|access-date=31 October 2014}}</ref> His role has also been likened to that of a ''[[Midfielder#Centre-half|metodista]]'' ("centre-half", in Italian football jargon), due to his ability to dictate play in midfield as well as assist his team defensively.<ref>{{cite web |date=22 May 2017 |title=Jorginho è l'Oro di Napoli: celebrato anche da La Gazzetta dello Sport |trans-title=Jorginho is Naples' Gold: celebrated even by La Gazzetta dello Sport. |url=https://www.90min.com/it/posts/5036619-jorginho-e-l-oro-di-napoli-celebrato-anche-da-la-gazzetta-dello-sport |access-date=13 April 2022 |website=90min.com |language=it}}</ref>

Since retiring, [[Steven Gerrard]] has said that he believes Alonso was the best midfielder he ever played alongside.<ref name="hitc.com"/> In March 2017, his former Bayern Munich manager [[Pep Guardiola]], to whom he has occasionally been compared due to their similar role and playing style, described Alonso as one of the best midfielders he had ever seen in his life.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37515638/bayern-munich-midfielder-xabi-alonso-make-good-manager-pep-guardiola |title=Bayern Munich's Xabi Alonso will make a good manager – Pep Guardiola |author1=Jonathan Smith |publisher=ESPN FC |date=10 March 2017 |access-date=28 March 2019}}</ref><ref name="Sportreview"/>

==Coaching and managerial career==

=== Early years ===
==== Real Madrid U14 ====
In 2018, whilst completing his [[UEFA]] Elite coaching course alongside former international teammates [[Raúl (footballer)|Raúl]], [[Xavi (footballer, born 1980)|Xavi]], [[Víctor Valdés]], and [[Joan Capdevila]], Alonso returned to [[Real Madrid CF|Real Madrid]] where he assumed a role coaching the Real Madrid U14s.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2018/05/31/5b0f00c2e5fdea473b8b456e.html|title=Xabi Alonso will coach a Real Madrid youth team|newspaper=Marca|last1=Diaz|last2=Winterburn|first1=Jose Felix|first2=Chris|date=31 May 2018|access-date=6 September 2018}}</ref>

===Real Sociedad B===
[[File:Xabi Alonso Real Sociedad B.jpg|thumb|Alonso as a coach of [[Real Sociedad B]] in 2021]]

Alonso was appointed manager of [[Segunda División B]] club [[Real Sociedad B]] on 1 June 2019,<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/spanish-football/2019/06/01/5cf260ca268e3edd048b45b2.html |title=Xabi Alonso leaves Real Madrid to coach Real Sociedad's B team |newspaper=Marca |location=Madrid |date=1 June 2019 |access-date=7 July 2019}}</ref> and began the role on 9 July.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/48930834|title=Xabi Alonso: Ex-Liverpool midfielder begins role as Real Sociedad B coach | date = 9 July 2019 | website = BBC Sport | access-date = 10 July 2019}}</ref> On his debut on 24 August, he drew 1–1 at home to [[Burgos CF|Burgos]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Lizasoain |first1=Imanol |title=El Sanse de Alonso se estrena con un punto|trans-title=Alonso's ''Sanse'' debut with a point |url=https://real-sociedad.diariovasco.com/sanse-alonso-estrena-20190824234544-nt.html |access-date=20 May 2023 |work=El Diario Vasco |date=24 August 2019 |language=Spanish}}</ref>

In Alonso's second season at ''Sanse'', the club won promotion to the [[Segunda División]], following a [[2021 Segunda División B play-offs|play-off win]] against [[Algeciras CF|Algeciras]] on 22 May 2021. The win signified Real Sociedad B's first season back in the Segunda División since [[1961–62 Segunda División|1961–62]].<ref>{{cite web | url =https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37617535/ex-liverpool-real-madrid-midfielder-xabi-alonso-makes-history-real-sociedad-b| title =Ex-Liverpool, Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso makes history at Real Sociedad B| website =ESPN| date = 23 May 2021 | access-date = 29 May 2021}}</ref> That March, despite being heavily linked to the soon-to-be vacant manager role at [[Borussia Mönchengladbach]],<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/12253456/xabi-alonso-former-liverpool-midfielder-to-become-head-coach-of-borussia-monchengladbach | title = Xabi Alonso: Former Liverpool midfielder to become head coach of Borussia Monchengladbach | website = Sky Sports | date = 22 March 2021 | access-date = 26 March 2021}}</ref> Alonso signed a one-year extension with the club.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/12257252/xabi-alonso-former-liverpool-midfielder-extends-deal-as-real-sociedad-b-head-coach-until-2022 | title = Xabi Alonso: Former Liverpool midfielder extends deal as Real Sociedad B head coach until 2022 | website = Sky Sports | date = 26 March 2021 | access-date = 26 March 2021}}</ref>

In his first game in the second tier on 14 August 2021, Alonso won 1–0 at home against [[CD Leganés|Leganés]] through a [[Jon Karrikaburu]] goal.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Soroeta |first1=Paula |title=Xabi Alonso: "Hemos jugado un partido muy serio, lo hemos madurado bien"|trans-title=Xabi Alonso: "We played a very serious game, we matured well" |url=https://real-sociedad.diariovasco.com/xabi-alonso-jugado-partido-serio-20210815234208-nt.html |access-date=20 May 2023 |work=El Diario Vasco |date=14 August 2021 |language=Spanish}}</ref> On 25 May 2022, Real Sociedad announced that Alonso would leave ''Sanse'' at the end of [[2021–22 Segunda División|the season]], with the side already relegated from the second level.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.realsociedad.eus/es/noticias/detalle/hasta-pronto-xabi|title=Hasta pronto, Xabi|trans-title=So long, Xabi|publisher=Real Sociedad|language=es|date=25 May 2022|accessdate=1 June 2022}}</ref>

===Bayer Leverkusen===
On 5 October 2022, Alonso was appointed as the new head coach of [[Bayer 04 Leverkusen|Bayer Leverkusen]] until June 2024. He replaced [[Gerardo Seoane]] with the team second from bottom after eight Bundesliga games, having their worst start to a season since 1979.<ref>{{cite news |title=Xabi Alonso handed Bayer Leverkusen manager role after Seoane sacking |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2022/oct/05/xabi-alonso-lands-bayer-leverkusen-manager-role-after-seoane-sacking |access-date=20 May 2023 |work=The Guardian |date=5 October 2022}}</ref> He debuted three days later with a 4–0 home win over [[FC Schalke 04|Schalke 04]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Leverkusen crush Schalke 4–0 in winning debut for coach Xabi Alonso|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/leverkusen-crush-schalke-4-0-in-winning-debut-for-coach-xabi-alonso/articleshow/94730211.cms |access-date=20 May 2023 |work=The Times of India |date=8 October 2022}}</ref> In Leverkusen's first European semifinal in 21 years, he was eliminated by his former Real Madrid manager [[José Mourinho]]'s [[AS Roma|Roma]] via a single first-leg goal.<ref>{{cite news |title=Europa League: Roma and Sevilla advance to the final |url=https://www.lemonde.fr/en/europe/article/2023/05/19/europa-league-roma-defeats-bayer-leverkusen-on-aggregate-while-sevilla-drops-juventus-setting-up-finals-match-up_6027194_143.html |access-date=20 May 2023 |work=Le Monde |date=19 May 2023}}</ref> At the end of the season, Bayer Leverkusen finished in sixth place and qualified for next season's [[2023–24 UEFA Europa League|UEFA Europa League]]. In May 2023, Alonso confirmed that he would remain for a second season, amidst interest from [[Tottenham Hotspur F.C.|Tottenham Hotspur]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Gorrie |first1=Jonathan |title=Tottenham manager news: Xabi Alonso confirms Bayer Leverkusen latest |url=https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/xabi-alonso-tottenham-next-manager-latest-news-2023-b1081780.html |access-date=20 May 2023 |work=Evening Standard |date=17 May 2023}}</ref>

On 4 August 2023, Alonso signed a new contract until 2026.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thedailystar.net/sports/football/news/xabi-alonso-extends-deal-leverkusen-2026-3386406 |title=Xabi Alonso extends deal at Leverkusen to 2026 |newspaper=The Daily Star |location=Dhaka |date=4 August 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bayer04.de/en-us/news/bayer04/bayer-04-agree-new-deal-with-xabi-alonso |title=Bayer 04 agree new deal with Xabi Alonso |publisher=Bayer 04 Leverkusen |date=4 August 2023 }}</ref> During the summer transfer window, he signed players including [[Switzerland national football team|Switzerland]] captain [[Granit Xhaka]], [[Jonas Hofmann]], [[Álex Grimaldo|Alejandro Grimaldo]] and [[Matěj Kovář]]. Alonso set his team up in a [[3–4–3 formation]] with an emphasis on passing and counter-attack, while also only conceding five goals from open play in their first 11 Bundesliga fixtures.<ref>{{Cite web |date=1 December 2023 |title=From 'Neverkusen' to Bundesliga title contenders: Inside Xabi Alonso's success at Bayer Leverkusen |url=https://www.espn.co.uk/football/story/_/id/39015175/how-xabi-alonso-made-bayer-leverkusen-bundesliga-contenders |access-date=29 January 2024 |website=ESPN.com|archive-date=29 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240129195958/https://www.espn.co.uk/football/story/_/id/39015175/how-xabi-alonso-made-bayer-leverkusen-bundesliga-contenders |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Smith |first1=Emma |title=Bayer Leverkusen: How Xabi Alonso's 'Neverkusen' are challenging Harry Kane's Bayern Munich |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/67402898 |access-date=16 December 2023 |publisher=BBC Sport |date=23 November 2023}}</ref> In the [[2023–24 UEFA Europa League group stage]], the team won all six games, with 19 goals scored.<ref>{{cite news |title=Perfect Leverkusen sails into last 16 |url=https://www.beinsports.com/en-au/football/uefa-europa-league/articles-video/perfect-leverkusen-sails-into-last-16-2023-12-14 |access-date=16 December 2023 |publisher=BeIN Sports |date=14 December 2023}}</ref> Leverkusen set a new record for unbeaten games, surpassing [[FC Bayern Munich|Bayern Munich]]'s 32 in February 2024.<ref>{{cite news |agency=Reuters|author= |date=23 February 2024 |title=Leverkusen extend Bundesliga lead and set 33-game unbeaten record |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2024/feb/23/leverkusen-extend-bundesliga-lead-and-set-33-game-unbeaten-record |access-date=25 February 2024 |work=The Guardian}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Xabi Alonso From "Leverkusen" to "Neverlosing" |url=https://www.soccersat.com/news/Xabi-Alonso-From-Leverkusen-to-Neverlosing |access-date=26 March 2024 |website=www.soccersat.com}}</ref>

Alonso was linked to become the new manager of former clubs Bayern Munich, [[Liverpool F.C.|Liverpool]] and Real Madrid. However, on 29 March 2024, he reaffirmed his commitment to complete his contract.<ref>{{cite news |agency=FRANCE24| author=AFP | date=29 March 2024 |title= Liverpool target Xabi Alonso says staying as Leverkusen coach |url= https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20240329-liverpool-target-xabi-alonso-says-staying-as-leverkusen-coach |access-date=29 March 2024 |work=FRANCE24}}</ref> On 14 April, Alonso led Leverkusen to a 5–0 win over [[SV Werder Bremen|Werder Bremen]] to clinch their first Bundesliga title and first German championship in history, with five games remaining.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bundesliga.com/en/bundesliga/news/bayer-leverkusen-werder-bremen-xabi-alonso-champions-title-free-highlights-26914 |title=Bayer Leverkusen beat Werder Bremen to win the Bundesliga! |publisher=Bundesliga |date=14 April 2024 |access-date=14 April 2024 }}</ref> On 9 May, he guided his team to achieve a new European record of 49 competitive matches without defeat in all competitions, following a 2–2 draw against Roma in the Europa League semi-final second leg, breaking [[S.L. Benfica|Benfica]]'s record of 48 games unbeaten between 1963 and 1965.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/68980160 |title=Bayer 04 Leverkusen 2–2 Roma |publisher=BBC Sport |date=9 May 2024 }}</ref> The streak was further extended to 51 matches without defeat with two additional Bundesliga wins, making for a full unbeaten Bundesliga season, before bringing it to an end with a 3–0 loss to [[Atalanta BC|Atalanta]] in the [[2024 UEFA Europa League final]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/match/2039971/ |title=Atalanta-Leverkusen / UEFA Europa League Final |publisher=UEFA |date=22 May 2024 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Wilson |first=Jonathan |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/article/2024/may/22/atalanta-bayer-leverkusen-europa-league-final-match-report |title=Atalanta win Europa League as Lookman hat-trick ends Leverkusen's unbeaten run |work=The Guardian |date=22 March 2024 }}</ref> Leverkusen obtained 40 points more than the previous season, like [[VfB Stuttgart]], a Bundesliga record. Club records were broken as well, namely 28 wins, 90 points, 89 goals scored, 24 goals conceded, 10 games won in a row, and 16 clean sheets in a season.<ref>{{cite web |date=19 May 2024 |title=Fußball: Leverkusen feiert historische Saison |url=https://sport.orf.at/stories/3125752/ |access-date=20 May 2024 |website=sport.ORF.at |language=de}}</ref> Alonso's Bayer Leverkusen also claimed the [[2023–24 DFB-Pokal]] on 25 May, defeating [[1. FC Kaiserslautern]] 1–0 in the [[2024 DFB-Pokal final|final]] to complete a domestic double.<ref name="DFB2024">{{cite web |title=Bayer Leverkusen beats Kaiserslautern in German Cup final |url=https://www.dw.com/en/bayer-leverkusen-beats-kaiserslautern-in-german-cup-final/a-69183291 |publisher=DW |access-date=28 May 2024 |date=25 May 2024}}</ref>

Alonso began his third season in charge of Leverkusen by winning the club's first [[2024 DFL-Supercup|DFL-Supercup]] after beating VfB Stuttgart 4–3 on penalties. However's the club's title defence began poorly with a 3–2 defeat to [[RB Leipzig]] in the club’s second game of the [[2024-25 Bundesliga]] season (which ended their 35 game unbeaten run), followed by a run of 1 win and 5 draws out of 6 games leaving Leverkusen 9 points off Bayern Munich after 10 games. In the [[2024-25 UEFA Champions League|UEFA Champions League]], Alonso lead Leverkusen to 6th in the [[2024-25 UEFA Champions League league phase|league phase]] ensuring automatic qualification to the [[2024-25 UEFA Champions League knockout phase|knockout phase]]. However, the club's European campaign ended in the round of 16 after a 5–0 aggregate defeat to Bayern Munich. Leverkusen also conceded their [[2024-25 DFB-Pokal|DFB-Pokal]] title after being knocked out in the semi-finals by third tier side [[Arminia Bielefeld]]. 

On 4 May 2025, Leverkusen drew 2–2 away with [[SC Freiburg]], which left them 8 points behind title rivals Bayern Munich with two games left to play, confirming the Bavarian club as champions.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/live/cy4v5vpv04qt |title=Freiburg 2–2 Bayer Leverkusen |publisher=BBC Sport |date=4 May 2025 }}</ref> Five days later, Alonso announced he would leave Leverkusen at the end of the season.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bayer04.de/en-us/news/bayer04/xabi-alonso-to-leave-bayer-04-at-the-end-of-the-season |title=Xabi Alonso to leave Bayer 04 at the end of the season |publisher=Bayer 04 Leverkusen |date=9 May 2025 }}</ref>

===Real Madrid===
On 25 May 2025, Alonso's former club Real Madrid announced his appointment as head coach for the next three seasons, starting from 1 June 2025.<ref>{{cite web |date=25 May 2025 |title=Official Announcement: Xabi Alonso |url=https://www.realmadrid.com/en-US/news/club/announcements/comunicado-oficial-xabi-alonso-25-05-2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250528174407/https://www.realmadrid.com/en-US/news/club/announcements/comunicado-oficial-xabi-alonso-25-05-2025 |archive-date=28 May 2025 |access-date=25 May 2025 |publisher=[[Real Madrid CF]]}}</ref> He replaced [[Carlo Ancelotti]], who was his manager at both Real Madrid from 2013 to 2014 and at Bayern Munich from 2016 to 2017.<ref>{{Cite web |date=25 May 2025 |title=Xabi Alonso named new Real Madrid coach |url=https://www.realmadrid.com/en-US/news/football/first-team/latest-news/perfil-xabi-alonso-25-05-2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250527194037/https://www.realmadrid.com/en-US/news/football/first-team/latest-news/perfil-xabi-alonso-25-05-2025 |archive-date=27 May 2025 |access-date=25 May 2025 |website= |publisher=Real Madrid CF}}</ref>

He debuted as Real Madrid head coach in the club's [[2025 FIFA Club World Cup]] opener versus [[Al Hilal SFC|Al-Hilal]] on 18 June, which resulted in a 1–1 draw.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Ronay |first=Barney |date=2025-06-18 |title=Alexander-Arnold feels heat on Real Madrid debut as Al-Hilal make Club World Cup point |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2025/jun/18/real-madrid-al-hilal-club-world-cup-match-report |access-date=2025-06-18 |work=The Guardian |language=en-GB |issn=0261-3077}}</ref> Four days later, Alonso got his first win for ''Los Blancos'', following a 3–1 scoreline against [[C.F. Pachuca|Pachuca]] despite going down to ten men in the 7th minute.<ref>{{Cite web |last=SAM |date=2025-06-22 |title=Real Madrid earn hard-fought victory vs. Pachuca as Alexander-Arnold impresses in FIFA Club World Cup |url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/fifa-club-world-cup/2025/06/23/68588dd8268e3eea6e8b457d.html |access-date=2025-06-22 |publisher=[[MARCA]] |language=en}}</ref> Real Madrid were eliminated in the semi-finals on 9 July 2025 following a 4–0 defeat to [[Paris Saint-Germain F.C.|Paris Saint-Germain]], marking Alonso's first loss as Real Madrid's manager.<ref>{{Cite web |title=REAL MADRID C.F. - ERROR |url=https://www.realmadrid.com/en-US/news/football/first-team/reports/cronica-psg-real-madrid-semifinales-09-07-2025 |access-date=2025-09-10 |website=www.realmadrid.com}}</ref>

He began the domestic campaign strongly, earning the [[La Liga Manager of the Month]] award for August 2025 after a perfect start to the season.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-09-08 |title=Xabi Alonso, LALIGA EA SPORTS Coach of the Month for August |url=https://www.laliga.com/en-GB/news/xabi-alonso-laliga-ea-sports-coach-of-the-month-for-august |access-date=2025-09-10 |website=Página web oficial de LALIGA {{!}} LALIGA |language=en}}</ref>

==Style of management==
Alonso is known for his versatility as a manager, using rigorous and highly organised, yet fluid set-up based on positional play. He initially favoured the [[4–3–3]] or [[4–2–3–1|4–2–3–1 formations]] at Real Sociedad B, but at Bayer Leverkusen, he began to use the [[3–4–3]] and [[Formation (association football)#3–4–2–1|3–4–2–1 formations]], as well as other systems on occasion. He is known for making use of tactics such as quick counter-pressing in central areas off the ball. On the ball, his teams use lots of passing from deep areas in the build-up phase, with rehearsed, structured patterns of play dictated by a deep-lying playmaker, such as [[Granit Xhaka]], and also make effective use of attacking [[Defender (association football)#Wing-back|wing-backs]] to provide width. This allows his sides to regain possession high up the pitch and move the ball forward quickly and accurately, and penetrate the opposing defensive line. His teams are also capable of dropping back into compact defensive blocks when necessary. As a manager, his tactics are influenced by his time playing under [[Pep Guardiola]], [[Carlo Ancelotti]], [[José Mourinho]], [[Rafael Benítez]], and [[Vicente del Bosque]]. In addition to his ability as a manager, he is also known for his man-management skills.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Carey |first1=Mark |last2=Harris |first2=Thom |title=Xabi Alonso worked wonders at Bayer Leverkusen. Would his tactics and style suit Real Madrid? |url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6344650/2025/05/10/alonso-leverkusen-madrid-tactics-style/ |access-date=10 June 2025 |work=The New York Times |date=10 May 2025}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Xabi Alonso's coaching career analysed |url=https://learning.coachesvoice.com/cv/xabi-alonso-bayer-leverkusen-liverpool/ |publisher=Coaches' Voice |access-date=10 June 2025 |date=26 January 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=From Midfield Maestro to Bundesliga Mastermind: Xabi Alonso's Leverkusen Legacy - Breaking The Lines |url=https://breakingthelines.com/opinion/from-midfield-maestro-to-bundesliga-mastermind-xabi-alonsos-leverkusen-legacy/ |access-date=10 June 2025 |date=19 May 2025}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Flynn |first1=Henry |title=Bayer Leverkusen's Xabi Alonso Could Have A Pep Guardiola-Like Effect |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/henryflynn/2024/01/12/bayer-leverkusens-xabi-alonso-could-have-a-pep-guardiola-like-effect-on-soccer/ |access-date=10 June 2025 |work=Forbes |date=12 January 2024 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=How Xabi Alonso has improved Bayer Leverkusen 2022/23: five tactical observations |url=https://learning.coachesvoice.com/cv/xabi-alonso-tactics-bayer-leverkusen-2022-23/ |publisher=Coaches' Voice |access-date=10 June 2025 |date=18 April 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Years of learning from best to help Alonso at Real Madrid |url=https://www.thescore.com/news/3291075 |publisher=theScore.com |access-date=10 June 2025 |language=en |date=25 May 2025}}</ref>

==Personal life==
Alonso was regarded as a quiet and friendly person by his teammates at Liverpool.<ref>{{cite web |last=Rice |first=Jimmy |title=Reina hails 'One of world's best' |publisher=Liverpool |date=3 December 2008 |url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/reina-hails-one-of-world-s-best |access-date=1 December 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120907123852/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/reina-hails-one-of-world-s-best |archive-date=7 September 2012}}</ref> He is married to Nagore Aranburu and the couple have three children: Jontxe (born 2008), Ane (born 2010), and Emma (born 2013).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kickette.com/pitter-patter-xabi-and-nagore-welcome-baby-ane/ |title=Pitter Patter: Xabi And Nagore Alonso Welcome Baby Ane |publisher=Kickette |date=31 March 2010 |access-date=30 August 2014 |archive-date=13 July 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110713150351/http://www.kickette.com/pitter-patter-xabi-and-nagore-welcome-baby-ane/ |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.vanitatis.com/noticias/2013-12-02/xabi-alonso-y-nagore-aramburu-ya-tienen-la-familia-numerosa-con-el-nacimiento-de-emma_61637/ | title = Xabi Alonso y Nagore Aranburu ya tienen la familia numerosa con el nacimiento de Emma | publisher = Vanitatis | language = es | date = 2 December 2013 | access-date = 30 August 2014 | first = Raoul | last = Higuera | archive-date = 8 December 2013 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131208034138/http://www.vanitatis.com/noticias/2013-12-02/xabi-alonso-y-nagore-aramburu-ya-tienen-la-familia-numerosa-con-el-nacimiento-de-emma_61637/ | url-status = dead }}</ref> On 11 March 2008, instead of travelling with the Liverpool team, Alonso stayed in Merseyside to be at his wife's side while she gave birth, saying, "It was a little frustrating to miss the match against [[Inter Milan|Inter]] but I have to be with my family at times like these."<ref>{{cite news |title=Xabi Alonso: "Fue un poco frustrante no jugar, pero tenía que estar con mi familia" | trans-title = Xabi Alonso: "It was a little frustrating to miss the match, but I had to be with my family" |newspaper= [[El Mundo (Spain)|El Mundo]] |date=13 March 2008 |url=http://www.elmundo.es/elmundodeporte/2008/03/13/futbol/1205432606.html |access-date=4 November 2008|language=es}}</ref> His decision to place his family ahead of a UEFA Champions League tie caused friction with manager Rafael Benítez.<ref>{{cite news |last=Wallace |first=Sam |title=Alonso left at home after Benítez tires of baby talk |newspaper= [[The Independent]] |date=11 March 2008 |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/alonso-left-at-home-after-benitez-tires-of-baby-talk-794019.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220507/https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/alonso-left-at-home-after-benitez-tires-of-baby-talk-794019.html |archive-date=7 May 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |access-date=4 November 2008}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Martín |first=Luis |title= La paternidad de Xabi Alonso provoca un lío en Anfield | trans-title = Xabi Alonso's fatherhood whips up a storm at Anfield |newspaper= [[El Pais (Madrid)|El Pais]] |date=12 March 2008 |url=http://www.elpais.com/articulo/deportes/paternidad/Xabi/Alonso/provoca/lio/Anfield/elpepidep/20080312elpepidep_1/Tes |access-date=4 November 2008|language=es}}</ref>

Alonso and Arsenal manager [[Mikel Arteta]] were neighbours on the same street while growing up in San Sebastián and later lived near each other in [[Liverpool]] while Arteta was an [[Everton F.C.|Everton]] player.<ref>{{cite news |last=Ducker |first=James |title=Arteta puts friendship on hold as Everton eye Europe |newspaper= [[The Times]] |date=25 March 2006 |url=https://www.thetimes.com/article/arteta-puts-friendship-on-hold-as-everton-eye-europe-nmfffl7l9xq |access-date=18 January 2025 | location=London}}</ref> Alonso convinced Arteta to transfer to Everton after he told him how happy he was living in Liverpool.<ref>{{cite news |last=Prentice |first=David |title=Mikel Arteta and Xabi Alonso's special bond put on hold in Everton-Liverpool derby |newspaper= [[Liverpool Echo]] |date=26 September 2008 |url=http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/everton-fc/everton-fc-news/2008/09/26/mikel-arteta-and-xabi-alonso-s-special-bond-put-on-hold-in-everton-liverpool-derby-100252-21906863/ |access-date=4 November 2008}}</ref> Alonso also helped persuade former Real Sociedad teammate [[Juan Ugarte]] to make a move to Wales by joining [[Wrexham A.F.C.|Wrexham]] in 2004.<ref name="Big1">{{cite web |last=Rice |first=Jimmy |title=Xabi Alonso: The Big Interview |publisher=Liverpool |date=18 January 2007 |url= http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/features/this_season/FN11090070118-1117.htm |access-date=15 August 2008 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070918230815/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/features/this_season/FN11090070118-1117.htm |archive-date = 18 September 2007}}</ref> 

Alonso's brother [[Mikel Alonso|Mikel]] played for Spanish club [[Real Unión]]. He previously spent a season on loan at [[Bolton Wanderers F.C.|Bolton Wanderers]] in the [[2007–08 Premier League|2007–08 season]] with an option for a permanent deal.<ref>{{cite news |title=Bolton clinch Alonso |newspaper= [[Manchester Evening News]] |date=16 July 2007 |url=http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/bolton_wanderers/s/1011/1011420_bolton_clinch_alonso.html |access-date=4 November 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Alonso joins Bolton from Sociedad |work=[[BBC Sport]] |date=10 July 2007 |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/b/bolton_wanderers/6290040.stm |access-date=4 November 2008}}</ref> However, the team opted not to extend the loan deal and he returned to Spain to train with Alonso's former club, Real Sociedad.<ref>{{cite web |last=Lorenzo |first=J. L. |title=El club presentará mañana el ERE con Alonso y Stevanovic |trans-title=The club will release Alonso and Stefanovic tomorrow under ERE legislation |publisher=[[Mundo Deportivo]] |date=3 September 2008 |url=http://www.mundodeportivo.com/web/gen/20080903/noticia_53530989163.html |access-date=1 December 2011 |language=es |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120223121927/http://www.mundodeportivo.com/web/gen/20080903/noticia_53530989163.html |archive-date=23 February 2012}}</ref> Alonso also has another brother involved in football, Jon, who works as a [[referee (association football)|referee]].<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.laopinion.es/secciones/noticia.jsp?pRef=2009012900_11_196509__Deportes-Tenerife-elige-Mikel-Alonso | title = El Tenerife elige a Mikel Alonso | language = es | publisher = La Opinion de Tenerife | date = 28 January 2009 | access-date = 30 August 2014 | first = Manoj | last = Daswani}}</ref> 

Alonso is a [[Meath GAA|Meath]] [[Gaelic football]] supporter.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Gaelic+Football%3A+Meath+Kop+big+fan+in+Alonso%3B+GAELIC+WORLD.-a0173616681|title=Meath Kop big fan in Alonso|publisher= Sunday Mirror |date=20 January 2008|access-date=29 July 2014}}</ref> His interest in the Irish sport stems from the age of 15 when he stayed with a family in the Irish town of [[Kells, County Meath]] to learn English, and played the sport in his spare time.<ref name="gaaboard">{{cite web |url=http://gaaboard.com/board/index.php?topic=6122.15|title=Reprint of aforementioned article on messageboard|publisher=GAA Board|date=3 January 2008|access-date=29 July 2014}}</ref> 

Even while playing at Real Madrid, Alonso declared himself a Liverpool supporter<ref>{{Cite web |last=Winstanley |first=Cameron |date=27 January 2024 |title=Xabi Alonso raised Liverpool-born son as Reds fan – 15 years after Anfield exit |url=https://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/xabi-alonso-son-liverpool-fan-31982308 |access-date=28 January 2024 |website=Daily Star |language=en}}</ref> and returns to watch games at Anfield when his schedule allows. He was quoted in ''[[The Times|The Times Online]]'' in 2011 as saying, "I am still a Liverpool fan and will be forever, absolutely" and that he will raise his Liverpool-born son Jontxe as a Red supporter.<ref>{{cite web |title=Alonso: My son's a Red |publisher=Liverpool |date=4 April 2011 |url=http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/alonso-my-son-s-a-red |access-date=5 April 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110406123222/http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/alonso-my-son-s-a-red |archive-date=6 April 2011}}</ref>

==Career statistics==
===Club===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center;"
|+ Appearances and goals by club, season and competition
|-
!rowspan="2"|Club
!rowspan="2"|Season
!colspan="3"|League
!colspan="2"|National cup{{efn|Includes [[Copa del Rey]], [[FA Cup]], [[DFB-Pokal]]}}
!colspan="2"|League cup{{efn|Includes [[Football League Cup]]}}
!colspan="2"|[[UEFA#Club|Europe]]{{efn|All appearances in [[UEFA Champions League]]}}
!colspan="2"|Other
!colspan="2"|Total
|-
!Division!!Apps!!Goals!!Apps!!Goals!!Apps!!Goals!!Apps!!Goals!!Apps!!Goals!!Apps!!Goals
|-
|rowspan="6"|[[Real Sociedad]]
|[[1999–2000 La Liga|1999–2000]]<ref name="nftstats" /><ref>{{Soccerbase season|25512|2003|name=Xabi Alonso|access-date=6 December 2016}}</ref>
|rowspan="5"|[[La Liga]]
|0||0||1||0||colspan="2"|–||colspan="2"|–||colspan="2"|–||1||0
|-
|[[2000–01 La Liga|2000–01]]<ref name="nftstats" />
|18||0||0||0||colspan="2"|–||colspan="2"|–||colspan="2"|–||18||0
|-
|[[2001–02 La Liga|2001–02]]<ref name="nftstats" />
|29||3||0||0||colspan="2"|–||colspan="2"|–||colspan="2"|–||29||3
|-
|[[2002–03 Real Sociedad season|2002–03]]<ref name="nftstats" />
|33||3||1||0||colspan="2"|–||colspan="2"|–||colspan="2"|–||34||3
|-
|[[2003–04 Real Sociedad season|2003–04]]<ref name="nftstats" />
|34||3||0||0||colspan="2"|–||8||1||colspan="2"|–||42||4
|-
!colspan="2"|Total
!114!!9!!2!!0!!colspan="2"|–!!8!!1!!colspan="2"|–!!124!!10
|-
|[[SD Eibar|Eibar]] (loan)
|[[2000–01 Segunda División|2000–01]]<ref name="nftstats">{{cite web|title=Alonso, Xabi|url=http://www.national-football-teams.com/player/6255/Xabi_Alonso.html|website=National Football Teams|access-date=6 December 2016}}</ref>
|[[Segunda División]]
|14||0||0||0||colspan="2"|–||colspan="2"|–||colspan="2"|–||14||0
|-
|rowspan="6"|[[Liverpool F.C.|Liverpool]]
|[[2004–05 Liverpool F.C. season|2004–05]]<ref name=LFCs>{{cite web|title=Player profile – Xabi Alonso|url=http://www.lfchistory.net/players/player/profile/900|website=LFC History|access-date=6 December 2016}}</ref>
|rowspan="5"|[[Premier League]]
|24||2||0||0||0||0||8||1||colspan="2"|–||32||3
|-
|[[2005–06 Liverpool F.C. season|2005–06]]<ref name=LFCs />
|35||3||5||2||0||0||11||0||2{{efn|One appearance in [[UEFA Super Cup]], one appearance in [[FIFA Club World Championship]]}}||0||53||5
|-
|[[2006–07 Liverpool F.C. season|2006–07]]<ref name=LFCs />
|32||4||1||0||2||0||15||0||1{{efn|Appearance in [[FA Community Shield]]}}||0||51||4
|-
|[[2007–08 Liverpool F.C. season|2007–08]]<ref name=LFCs />
|19||2||3||0||1||0||4||0||colspan="2"|–||27||2
|-
|[[2008–09 Liverpool F.C. season|2008–09]]<ref name=LFCs />
|33||4||3||0||1||0||10||1||colspan="2"|–||47||5
|-
!colspan="2"|Total
!143!!15!!12!!2!!4!!0!!48!!2!!3!!0!!210!!19
|-
|rowspan="7"|[[Real Madrid CF|Real Madrid]]
|[[2009–10 Real Madrid CF season|2009–10]]<ref name="Soccerway" />
|rowspan="6"|La Liga
|34||3||0||0||colspan="2"|–||7||0||colspan="2"|–||41||3
|-
|[[2010–11 Real Madrid CF season|2010–11]]<ref name="Soccerway" />
|34||0||7||1||colspan="2"|–||11||0||colspan="2"|–||52||1
|-
|[[2011–12 Real Madrid CF season|2011–12]]<ref name="Soccerway" />
|36||1||4||0||colspan="2"|–||10||0||2{{efn|name=SDE|Appearances in [[Supercopa de España]]}}||1||52||2
|-
|[[2012–13 Real Madrid CF season|2012–13]]<ref name="Soccerway" />
|28||0||7||0||colspan="2"|–||10||0||2{{efn|name=SDE}}||0||47||0
|-
|[[2013–14 Real Madrid CF season|2013–14]]<ref name="Soccerway" />
|26||0||7||0||colspan="2"|–||9||0||0||0||42||0
|-
|[[2014–15 Real Madrid CF season|2014–15]]<ref name="Soccerway" />
|0||0||0||0||colspan="2"|–||0||0||2{{efn|name=SDE}}||0||2||0
|-
!colspan="2"|Total
!158!!4!!25!!1!!colspan="2"|–!!47!!0!!6!!1!!236!!6
|-
|rowspan="4"|[[FC Bayern Munich|Bayern Munich]]
|[[2014–15 FC Bayern Munich season|2014–15]]<ref name=FCBMs>{{cite magazine | url = https://www.kicker.de/xabi-alonso/spieler/bundesliga/2014-15/fc-bayern-muenchen | title = Xabi Alonso | language = de | magazine = [[Kicker (magazine)|Kicker]] | access-date = 13 May 2017}}</ref>
|rowspan="3"|[[Bundesliga]]
|26||2||4||0||colspan="2"|–||10||2||0||0||40||4
|-
|[[2015–16 FC Bayern Munich season|2015–16]]<ref name=FCBMs />
|26||0||4||1||colspan="2"|–||8||1||1{{efn|name=DFL|Appearance in [[DFL-Supercup]]}}||0||39||2
|-
|[[2016–17 FC Bayern Munich season|2016–17]]<ref name=FCBMs />
|27||3||3||0||colspan="2"|–||7||0||1{{efn|name=DFL}}||0||38||3
|-
!colspan="2"|Total
!79!!5!!11!!1!!colspan="2"|–!!25!!3!!2!!0!!117!!9
|-
!colspan="3"|Career total
!508!!33!!50!!4!!4!!0!!128!!6!!11!!1!!701!!44
|}

{{notelist}}

===International===
{{updated|18 June 2014}}<ref name="rsssf">{{cite web|title=Xabi Alonso Olano – Century of International Appearances|url=https://www.rsssf.org/miscellaneous/xabialonso-intlg.html|website=RSSSF|access-date=6 December 2016}}</ref>

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center;"
|+ Appearances and goals by national team and year
|-
!National team!!Year!!Apps!!Goals
|-
|rowspan="13"|[[Spain national football team|Spain]]
|-
|2003||5||0
|-
|2004||11||0
|-
|2005||6||0
|-
|2006||11||1
|-
|2007||6||0
|-
|2008||14||2
|-
|2009||12||4
|-
|2010||16||2
|-
|2011||11||3
|-
|2012||14||3
|-
|2013||3*||0
|-
|2014||5||1
|-
!colspan="2"|Career total!!114!!16
|}

* <small>The match away against [[Equatorial Guinea national football team|Equatorial Guinea]] in November 2013 although included in Alonso's 114 caps is not considered a full international by [[FIFA]] (too many substitutions) but it is official for the [[Royal Spanish Football Federation|RFEF]]</small><ref name="rsssf" />

:''Scores and results list Spain's goal tally first, score column indicates score after each Alonso goal.''<ref name="nftstats" /><ref name="Soccerway" />

{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+ List of international goals scored by Xabi Alonso
|-
!scope="col"|No.
!scope="col"|Date
!scope="col"|Venue
!scope="col"|Opponent
!scope="col"|Score
!scope="col"|Result
!scope="col"|Competition
|-
| align="center"|1 || 14 June 2006 || [[Red Bull Arena (Leipzig)|Zentralstadion]], [[Leipzig]], Germany || {{fb|UKR}} || align="center"|1–0 || align="center"|4–0 || [[2006 FIFA World Cup Group H|2006 FIFA World Cup]]
|-
| align="center"|2 || rowspan="2"|20 August 2008 || rowspan="2"|[[Parken Stadium]], [[Copenhagen]], Denmark || rowspan="2"|{{fb|DEN}} || align="center"|1–0 || rowspan="2" style="text-align:center;"| 3–0 || rowspan="2"|[[Exhibition game|Friendly]]
|-
| align="center"|3 || align="center"|3–0
|-
| align="center"|4 || 1 April 2009 || [[Ali Sami Yen Stadium]], [[Istanbul]], Turkey || {{fb|TUR}} || align="center"|1–1 || align="center"|2–1 || [[2010 FIFA World Cup qualification – UEFA Group 5|2010 FIFA World Cup Qualification]]
|-
| align="center"|5 || 28 June 2009 || [[Royal Bafokeng Stadium]], [[Rustenburg]], South Africa || {{fb|RSA}} || align="center"|3–2 || align="center"|3–2 || [[2009 FIFA Confederations Cup]]
|-
| align="center"|6 || rowspan="2"|14 November 2009 || rowspan="2"|[[Vicente Calderón Stadium]], [[Madrid]], Spain || rowspan="2"|{{fb|ARG}} || align="center"|1–0 || rowspan="2" style="text-align:center;"| 2–1 || rowspan="2"|Friendly
|-
| align="center"|7 || align="center"|2–1
|-
| align="center"|8 || 29 May 2010 || [[Tivoli-Neu]], [[Innsbruck]], Austria || {{fb|KSA}} || align="center"|2–1 || align="center"|3–2 || Friendly
|-
| align="center"|9 || 8 June 2010 || [[Estadio Nueva Condomina]], [[Murcia]], Spain || {{fb|POL}} || align="center"|3–0 || align="center"|6–0 || Friendly
|-
| align="center"|10 || 7 June 2011 || [[Estadio José Antonio Anzoátegui]], [[Puerto la Cruz]], Venezuela || {{fb|VEN}} || align="center"|3–0 || align="center"|3–0 || Friendly
|-
| align="center"|11 || 10 August 2011 || [[Stadio San Nicola]], [[Bari]], Italy || {{fb|ITA}} || align="center"|1–1 || align="center"|1–2 || Friendly
|-
| align="center"|12 || 7 October 2011 || [[Generali Arena]], [[Prague]], Czech Republic || {{fb|CZE}} || align="center"|2–0 || align="center"|2–0 || [[UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying Group I|UEFA Euro 2012 Qualification]]
|-
| align="center"|13 || 30 May 2012 || [[Stade de Suisse]], [[Bern]], Switzerland || {{fb|KOR}} || align="center"|2–1 || align="center"|4–1 || Friendly
|-
| align="center"|14 || rowspan="2"|23 June 2012 || rowspan="2"|[[Donbas Arena]], [[Donetsk]], Ukraine || rowspan="2"|{{fb|FRA|1974}} || align="center"|1–0 || rowspan="2" style="text-align:center;"| 2–0 || rowspan="2"|[[UEFA Euro 2012]]
|-
| align="center"|15 || align="center"|2–0
|-
| align="center"|16 || 13 June 2014 || [[Itaipava Arena Fonte Nova|Arena Fonte Nova]], [[Salvador, Bahia|Salvador]], Brazil || {{fb|NED}} || align="center"|1–0 || align="center"|1–5 || [[2014 FIFA World Cup Group B|2014 FIFA World Cup]]
|}

==Managerial statistics==
{{updated|match played 20 December 2025}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center;"
|+ Managerial record by team and tenure
|-
!rowspan=2|Team
!rowspan=2|From
!rowspan=2|To
!colspan=8|Record
!rowspan=2|{{abbr|Ref|Reference}}
|-
!{{Tooltip|G|Games managed}}
!{{Tooltip|W|Games won}}
!{{Tooltip|D|Games drawn}}
!{{Tooltip|L|Games lost}}
!{{Tooltip|GF|Goals for}}
!{{Tooltip|GA|Goals against}}
!{{Tooltip|GD|Goal difference}}
!{{Tooltip|Win %|Winning percentage}}
|-
|align=left|[[Real Sociedad B]]
|align=left|1 June 2019
|align=left|28 May 2022
{{WDL|98|40|23|35|for=140|against=120|diff=yes|decimals=2}}
|<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sport-english.com/en/news/laliga/xabi-alonso-leaves-madrid-to-take-over-real-sociedads-academy-side-7484610 |title=Xabi Alonso leaves Madrid to take over Real Sociedad's academy side |newspaper=Sport |location=Barcelona |date=1 June 2019 |access-date=7 July 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://uk.soccerway.com/teams/spain/real-sociedad-de-futbol-ii/2065/matches/ |title=Real Sociedad de Fútbol II: Matches |website=Soccerway |publisher=Perform Group |access-date=27 August 2019}}</ref><ref>{{BDFutbol season|l2642|2019–20|access-date=20 September 2019}}<br>{{BDFutbol season|l2642|2020–21|access-date=24 May 2021}}<br>{{BDFutbol season|l2642|2021–22|access-date=2 October 2021}}</ref>
|-
|align=left|[[Bayer 04 Leverkusen|Bayer Leverkusen]]
|align=left|5 October 2022
|align=left|17 May 2025
{{WDL|140|88|33|19|for=308|against=150|diff=yes|decimals=2}}
|<ref>{{cite web |title=Bayer 04 Leverkusen — Trainer |url=https://www.kicker.de/bayer-04-leverkusen/team-trainer/bundesliga/2023-24 |website=[[Kicker (magazine)|Kicker]] |publisher=Olympia Verlag |access-date=23 February 2024 |language=German}}</ref>
|-
|align=left|[[Real Madrid CF|Real Madrid]]
|align=left|1 June 2025
|align=left|''Present''
{{WDL|31|22|4|5|for=63|against=33|diff=yes|decimals=2}}
|<ref>{{BDFutbol season|l2642|2024–25|access-date=10 December 2025}}<br>{{BDFutbol season|l2642|2025–26|access-date=20 December 2025}}</ref>
|-
!colspan=3|Total
{{WDLtot|268|149|60|59|for=505|against=301|diff=yes|decimals=2}}
!
|}

==Honours==
===Player===
'''Liverpool'''<ref name="Soccerway">{{cite web | url = https://www.soccerway.com/player/alonso-xabi/hAcTWKKN/ | title = Xabi Alonso | publisher = Soccerway | access-date = 30 August 2014}}</ref>
* [[FA Cup]]: [[2005–06 FA Cup|2005–06]]<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.lfchistory.net/SeasonArchive/Game/4990 | title = Liverpool 3 – 3 West Ham United | website = lfchistory.net | date = 13 May 2006 | access-date = 30 August 2014}}</ref>
* [[FA Community Shield]]: [[2006 FA Community Shield|2006]]<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.lfchistory.net/SeasonArchive/Game/4992 | title = Liverpool 2 – 1 Chelsea | website = lfchistory.net | date = 13 August 2006 | access-date = 30 August 2014}}</ref>
* [[UEFA Champions League]]: [[2004–05 UEFA Champions League|2004–05]]; runner-up: [[2006–07 UEFA Champions League|2006–07]]<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.lfchistory.net/SeasonArchive/Game/4928 | title = AC Milan 3 – 3 Liverpool | website = lfchistory.net | date = 25 May 2005 | access-date = 30 August 2014}}</ref>
* [[UEFA Super Cup]]: [[2005 UEFA Super Cup|2005]]<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.lfchistory.net/SeasonArchive/Game/4973 | title = Liverpool 3 – 1 CSKA Moscow | website = lfchistory.net | date = 26 August 2005 | access-date = 30 August 2014}}</ref>
* [[FIFA Club World Cup]] runner-up: [[2005 FIFA Club World Championship|2005]]

'''Real Madrid'''<ref name="Soccerway" />
* [[La Liga]]: [[2011–12 La Liga|2011–12]]
* [[Copa del Rey]]: [[2010–11 Copa del Rey|2010–11]], [[2013–14 Copa del Rey|2013–14]]; runner-up: [[2012–13 Copa del Rey|2012–13]]
* [[Supercopa de España]]: [[2012 Supercopa de España|2012]]
* [[UEFA Champions League]]: [[2013–14 UEFA Champions League|2013–14]]

'''Bayern Munich'''<ref name="Soccerway" />
* [[Bundesliga]]: [[2014–15 Bundesliga|2014–15]], [[2015–16 Bundesliga|2015–16]], [[2016–17 Bundesliga|2016–17]]
* [[DFB-Pokal]]: [[2015–16 DFB-Pokal|2015–16]]
* [[DFL-Supercup]]: [[2016 DFL-Supercup|2016]]

'''Spain'''<ref name="Soccerway" />
* [[FIFA World Cup]]: [[2010 FIFA World Cup|2010]]
* [[UEFA European Championship]]: [[UEFA Euro 2008|2008]], [[UEFA Euro 2012|2012]]

'''Individual'''
* [[Don Balón Award|Spanish Player of the Year]]: 2003
* [[BBC Goal of the Month]]: November 2004<ref>{{cite web |last=Glover |first=Alex |title=Sadio Mane wins MOTD Goal of the Month – We pick Liverpool's best winners from down the years |work=[[Liverpool Echo]] |date=12 September 2016 |url=http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/sadio-mane-wins-motd-goal-11875721 |access-date=2 July 2017}}</ref>
* [[FIFPro#FIFA FIFPro World XI|FIFA FIFPro World XI]]: [[2011 FIFA Ballon d'Or#FIFA/FIFPro World XI|2011]], [[2012 FIFA Ballon d'Or#FIFA/FIFPro World XI|2012]]; 2nd team: 2014;<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.fifpro.org/news/fifa-fifpro-world-xi-the-reserve-teams/en/ |title=FIFA FIFPro World XI: the reserve teams – FIFPro World Players' Union |publisher=FIFPro.org |date=15 January 2015 |access-date=1 October 2017 |archive-date=14 April 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190414193942/https://fifpro.org/news/fifa-fifpro-world-xi-the-reserve-teams/en/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> 3rd team: 2013;<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/fifpro-announces-reserve-teams-of-the-year-but-luis-suarez-and-arjen-robben-wont-be-laughing-while-9062047.html#gallery |title=FifPro announces reserve Teams of the Year – but Luis Suarez and Arjen Robben won't be laughing while Iker Casillas is somehow named the second best goalkeeper of 2013 |publisher=Independent.co.uk |date=15 January 2014 |access-date=1 October 2017}}</ref> 4th team: 2015;<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.fifpro.org/news/2015-world-xi-the-reserve-teams-2/en/ |title=2015 World XI: the Reserve Teams – FIFPro World Players' Union |publisher=FIFPro.org |date=11 January 2016 |access-date=1 October 2017 |archive-date=9 April 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190409090125/https://fifpro.org/news/2015-world-xi-the-reserve-teams-2/en/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> 5th team: 2016<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.fifpro.org/news/2016-world-11-the-reserve-teams/en/ |title=2016 World 11: the reserve teams – FIFPro World Players' Union |publisher=FIFPro.org |date=9 January 2017 |access-date=1 October 2017 |archive-date=9 April 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190409090134/https://fifpro.org/news/2016-world-11-the-reserve-teams/en/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>
* [[LFP Awards|La Liga Best Midfielder]]: 2011–12<ref>{{cite news | url = http://www.marca.com/2012/11/13/en/football/spanish_football/1352826697.html | title = Messi and Guardiola, invited to Real Madrid's party | newspaper = [[Marca (newspaper)|Marca]] | date = 13 November 2012 | access-date = 4 July 2017}}</ref>
* [[UEFA European Football Championship Teams of the Tournament|UEFA European Championship Team of the Tournament]]: [[UEFA Euro 2012#Awards|2012]]
* [[UEFA Champions League]] Squad of the Season: [[2013–14 UEFA Champions League#Squad of the season|2013–14]]
* Bundesliga Team of the Season: 2014–15<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.bundesliga.com/en/watch/galleries/0000320167.jsp | title = 2014/15 Team of the Season | publisher = [[Bundesliga]] | date = 11 May 2015 | access-date = 2 July 2017 | archive-date = 14 May 2017 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170514135204/http://www.bundesliga.com/en/watch/galleries/0000320167.jsp | url-status = dead }}</ref>

'''Decorations'''
* [[Royal Order of Sports Merit|Gold Medal of the Royal Order of Sporting Merit]]: 2011<ref>{{cite web |date=5 October 2011 |title=Las campeones del mundo de fútbol ya tienen la Real Orden del Mérito Deportivo |trans-title=The women's football world champions now have the Royal Order of Sports Merit. |url=http://www.mundodeportivo.com/20111005/futbol/seleccion-espanola/las-campeones-del-mundo-de-futbol-ya-tienen-la-real-orden-del-merito-deportivo_54226408413.html |access-date=30 August 2014 |website=mundodeportivo.com |language=es}}</ref>

===Manager===
'''Bayer Leverkusen'''
*Bundesliga: [[2023–24 Bundesliga|2023–24]]<ref>{{cite news |last=Whelan |first=Padraig |date=14 April 2024 |title=🚨 Bayer Leverkusen crowned German champions for first time 🏆 |url=https://onefootball.com/en/news/bayer-leverkusen-crowned-german-champions-for-first-time-39348923 |access-date=14 April 2024 |website=OneFootball}}</ref>
*DFB-Pokal: [[2023–24 DFB-Pokal|2023–24]]<ref name="DFB2024"/>
*DFL-Supercup: [[2024 DFL-Supercup|2024]]<ref>{{cite news |date=17 August 2024 |title=Bayer Leverkusen battle back to beat VfB Stuttgart on penalties in Supercup |url=https://www.bundesliga.com/en/bundesliga/news/bayer-leverkusen-vfb-stuttgart-supercup-preview-live-blog-report-alonso-28479 |access-date=17 August 2024 |publisher=Bundesliga}}</ref>
*[[UEFA Europa League]] runner-up: [[2023–24 UEFA Europa League|2023–24]]<ref>{{cite news |date=22 May 2024 |title=Atalanta 3–0 Leverkusen: Lookman treble brings UEFA Europa League glory to Bergamo |url=https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/news/028d-1af3bf5e7e68-7d9202792002-1000--atalanta-3-0-leverkusen-lookman-treble-brings-uefa-europ/ |publisher=UEFA |access-date=23 May 2024}}</ref>

'''Individual'''
*[[Globe Soccer Awards#Best Coach of the Year Award|Globe Soccer Best Coach of the Year]]: 2024
*[[Vereinigung der Vertragsfußballspieler#Coach of the Season (2010–present)|VDV Bundesliga Coach of the Season]]: [[2023–24 Bundesliga|2023–24]]<ref>{{cite news |date=27 May 2024 |title=Florian Wirtz ist VDV-Spieler der Saison |trans-title=Florian Wirtz is VDV Player of the Season. |url=https://www.spielergewerkschaft.de/de/vdv/news/244/Aktuelles-%7C-VDV-11-%7C-Wahlergebnisse.htm |access-date=27 May 2024 |publisher=VDV |language=de}}</ref>
*[[Football Manager of the Year (Germany)|Football Manager of the Year in Germany]]: 2024<ref name="winner 2024">{{cite web |date=4 August 2024 |title=kicker-Awards: Kroos ist Fußballer des Jahres, Xabi Alonso Trainer des Jahres |trans-title=kicker Awards: Kroos is Footballer of the Year, Xabi Alonso Coach of the Year. |url=https://www.kicker.de/kicker-awards-kroos-ist-fussballer-des-jahres-xabi-alonso-trainer-des-jahres-1042228/artikel#omrss |access-date=4 August 2024 |website=kicker |language=de}}</ref>
*[[La Liga Manager of the Month]]: [[2025–26 La Liga#Monthly awards|August 2025]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.laliga.com/en-GB/news/xabi-alonso-laliga-ea-sports-coach-of-the-month-for-august|publisher=La Liga|date=8 September 2025|title=Xabi Alonso, LALIGA EA SPORTS Coach of the Month for August|access-date=8 September 2025}}</ref>

== See also ==
* [[List of footballers with 100 or more UEFA Champions League appearances]]
* [[List of men's footballers with 100 or more international caps]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
{{Commons category}}
* [https://www.realmadrid.com/en-US/football/first-team/players/xabi-alonso Profile] at the Real Madrid CF website
* [https://www.liverpoolfc.com/info/xabi-alonso Profile] at the Liverpool F.C. website
* [https://rfef.es/es/selecciones/jugadores/xabi-alonso Profile] at the Royal Spanish Football Federation website {{in lang|es}}
* {{FIFA player}}
* {{UEFA player}}

{{Real Madrid CF squad}} 
{{La Liga managers}}
{{Navboxes
| title = Spain squads
| bg = #C60B1E
| fg = #FBEA0E
| bordercolor = #000033
| list1 = 
{{Spain squad UEFA Euro 2004}}
{{Spain squad 2006 FIFA World Cup}}
{{Spain squad UEFA Euro 2008}}
{{Spain squad 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup}}
{{Spain squad 2010 FIFA World Cup}}
{{Spain squad UEFA Euro 2012}}
{{Spain squad 2014 FIFA World Cup}}
}}
{{Navboxes
| title = Awards
| bg = Gold
| fg = Black
| bordercolor = Black
| list1 =
{{UEFA Euro 2012 Team of the Tournament}}
{{2015–16 kicker Bundesliga Team of the Season}}
{{La Liga Player of the Year}}
{{La Liga Defensive Midfielder of the Year}}
{{Bundesliga winning managers}}
{{DFB-Pokal winning managers}}
{{Football Manager of the Year (Germany)}}
}}
{{Navboxes
| title = Managerial positions
| list =
{{Real Sociedad B managers}}
{{Bayer 04 Leverkusen managers}}
{{Real Madrid CF managers}}
}}
{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Alonso, Xabi}}
[[Category:1981 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Footballers from Tolosa, Spain]]
[[Category:Spanish men's footballers]]
[[Category:Men's association football midfielders]]
[[Category:Alonso family (Gipuzkoa)|Xabi]]
[[Category:Antiguoko players]]
[[Category:Real Sociedad B footballers]]
[[Category:Real Sociedad footballers]]
[[Category:SD Eibar footballers]]
[[Category:Liverpool F.C. players]]
[[Category:Real Madrid CF players]]
[[Category:FC Bayern Munich footballers]]
[[Category:Tercera División players]]
[[Category:Segunda División players]]
[[Category:La Liga players]]
[[Category:Premier League players]]
[[Category:Bundesliga players]]
[[Category:UEFA Champions League–winning players]]
[[Category:Spain men's youth international footballers]]
[[Category:Spain men's under-21 international footballers]]
[[Category:Spain men's international footballers]]
[[Category:Basque Country men's international footballers]]
[[Category:UEFA Euro 2004 players]]
[[Category:2006 FIFA World Cup players]]
[[Category:UEFA Euro 2008 players]]
[[Category:2009 FIFA Confederations Cup players]]
[[Category:2010 FIFA World Cup players]]
[[Category:UEFA Euro 2012 players]]
[[Category:2014 FIFA World Cup players]]
[[Category:UEFA European Championship–winning players]]
[[Category:FIFA World Cup–winning players]]
[[Category:FIFA Men's Century Club]]
[[Category:Spanish expatriate men's footballers]]
[[Category:Spanish expatriate sportspeople in England]]
[[Category:Spanish expatriate sportspeople in Germany]]
[[Category:Expatriate men's footballers in England]]
[[Category:Expatriate men's footballers in Germany]]
[[Category:Spanish football managers]]
[[Category:Real Madrid CF non-playing staff]]
[[Category:Segunda División B managers]]
[[Category:Real Sociedad B managers]]
[[Category:Segunda División managers]]
[[Category:Bayer 04 Leverkusen managers]]
[[Category:Bundesliga managers]]
[[Category:Real Madrid CF managers]]
<!--[[Category:La Liga managers]]-->
[[Category:Spanish expatriate football managers]]
[[Category:Expatriate football managers in Germany]]
[[Category:21st-century Spanish sportsmen]]