Carlo Ancelotti`s second tenure as Real Madrid`s head coach is nearing its conclusion. Speculation suggests he will depart in the coming weeks, leading to the crucial question: who will succeed him at the helm of this prestigious European club?
Upon his return in 2021, Ancelotti brought stability to Real Madrid. He secured two La Liga titles and two Champions League trophies, guiding the team through a transition to a new generation of stars, including Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham. However, his second stint was always expected to be temporary, and recent rumors linking him to the Brazilian national team have intensified. While his exit appears probable, it remains uncertain if he will remain for the Club World Cup in June.
Regardless of Ancelotti`s departure date, his successor faces a significant challenge. Real Madrid`s recent Champions League elimination against Arsenal highlighted the work needed. The team, despite its star power, lacks cohesive balance. An inconsistent defense and aging key players indicate a need for squad rejuvenation in several positions. The incoming manager must forge a fresh vision for the team while upholding the club`s unwavering pursuit of trophies, even if rebuilding seems contrary to immediate silverware aspirations.
As anticipation builds for Real Madrid`s announcement of Ancelotti`s replacement, here is a ranking of potential candidates.
5. Jurgen Klopp
Jurgen Klopp`s name has surprisingly surfaced among bookmakers, possibly fueled by reports from Brazil suggesting his dissatisfaction in his global soccer role at Red Bull, a position he assumed only months ago. While the prospect of Klopp managing Real Madrid`s star-studded squad is intriguing, the move is highly improbable. Klopp`s agent has stated that the former Liverpool manager is `very happy` in his current position. Therefore, this option seems unlikely.
4. Raul
Real Madrid could consider an internal candidate, and Raul would be the leading choice. As a club legend and native of Madrid, Raul has managed the reserve team since 2019 and is likely seeking advancement. However, his relative inexperience might be a drawback for such a high-pressure role, making his appointment improbable at this time. This situation echoes Santiago Solari, who transitioned from Real Madrid reserves to interim senior team manager in 2018 after Julen Lopetegui`s dismissal, only to be replaced by March after Champions League elimination.
3. Zinedine Zidane
Re-appointing Zinedine Zidane would be akin to an internal hire, given his legendary status as both a player and manager for Real Madrid. He is readily available after leaving the club in 2021. However, a Zidane return may not be a long-term solution for Real Madrid, particularly as it appears he has been waiting for an opportunity to coach the French national team.
2. Andoni Iraola
Andoni Iraola has distinguished himself during his two seasons at Bournemouth, emerging as a promising managerial talent. Larger clubs are noticing, with links to the Tottenham Hotspur job should they part ways with Ange Postecoglou. Iraola is likely to be considered by several clubs in the coming months, and a high-profile move from Bournemouth may be imminent. However, similar to Raul, it might be premature in Iraola`s career for a position as demanding as Real Madrid manager.
1. Xabi Alonso
From the moment Xabi Alonso`s Bayer Leverkusen was poised to win their first Bundesliga title, he was viewed as a prime candidate for several top jobs – Liverpool, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid, all former clubs. While the Liverpool and Bayern opportunities went in different directions, it has perfectly aligned for Real Madrid to pursue Alonso, arguably the most impressive young manager in football. His tenure at Leverkusen has been exceptional, rescuing them from relegation contention and leading them to the league title within two years, in a league dominated by Bayern Munich. He has implemented an attractive playing style and nurtured young talents like Florian Wirtz, making Leverkusen one of Europe`s most exciting teams.
Stepping up to Real Madrid presents a different challenge, given the immense expectations and pressure. However, a manager of his caliber must make such a leap eventually, and he has earned the opportunity to prove himself at this level. The job is likely his if he desires it, and it is hard to imagine he would refuse.
