Carlo Ancelotti`s second tenure as Real Madrid manager is reportedly nearing its conclusion. Speculation suggests he will depart in the coming weeks, raising the crucial question: who will succeed him and lead one of Europe`s most ambitious clubs?
Upon his return in 2021, Ancelotti brought stability to Los Blancos, securing two La Liga titles and two UEFA Champions League trophies. He also guided the team through a generational shift, integrating young stars like Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham. However, his second stint was not intended to be permanent, and rumors linking him to the Brazil national team have intensified recently. While Ancelotti`s exit appears probable, his presence at the Club World Cup in June remains uncertain.
Regardless of the exact timing of Ancelotti`s departure, his successor faces a significant challenge. Real Madrid`s recent Champions League exit against Arsenal highlighted the work needed. The team, despite its star-studded lineup, is yet to find consistent balance. Defensive vulnerabilities and aging key players indicate a need for squad rejuvenation. The incoming manager will be tasked with forging a new vision while upholding the club`s relentless pursuit of trophies, even if a rebuild is necessary.
As anticipation builds for Real Madrid`s announcement regarding Ancelotti`s replacement, here is a ranking of potential candidates:
5. Jurgen Klopp
Jurgen Klopp`s name has surprisingly emerged in discussions, fueled by reports from Brazil suggesting his dissatisfaction in his current role as head of global soccer at Red Bull. While the prospect of Klopp managing Real Madrid`s talented squad is intriguing, it seems highly improbable. Klopp`s agent has stated that the former Liverpool manager is “very happy” in his present position. Therefore, this possibility can likely be dismissed.
4. Raul
Real Madrid could consider an internal candidate, and Raul would be the leading option. A club legend, Raul has managed the reserve team since 2019 and is likely seeking a step up. However, his relative inexperience might be a concern for such a demanding role. This situation echoes Santiago Solari`s appointment, who transitioned from managing Real Madrid`s reserves to the senior team in 2018 before being replaced after a Champions League defeat to Ajax.
3. Zinedine Zidane
Reappointing Zinedine Zidane would almost be considered an internal hire, given his legendary status as both a player and manager at Real Madrid. He is also available, having been without a club since leaving in 2021. However, a Zidane return may not be a long-term solution for Real Madrid, especially as he has been linked with the French national team job for some time.
2. Andoni Iraola
Andoni Iraola has impressed during his two seasons at Bournemouth, establishing himself as a promising managerial talent. Larger clubs are noticing him, with links to the Tottenham Hotspur job. Iraola is likely to be considered by several clubs, and a move from Bournemouth could happen soon. However, similar to Raul, the Real Madrid job might be too early in his career.
1. Xabi Alonso
Since Xabi Alonso`s Bayer Leverkusen began their impressive Bundesliga title run, he has been viewed as a potential candidate for several top jobs, including Liverpool, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid – all his former clubs. With Liverpool and Bayern Munich choosing other directions, Real Madrid appears to be perfectly positioned to secure Alonso, arguably the most exciting young manager in football. His tenure at Leverkusen has been exceptional, transforming them from relegation contenders to Bundesliga champions within two years, in a league dominated by Bayern Munich. He has implemented an attractive playing style and developed young talents like Florian Wirtz, making Leverkusen one of Europe`s most exciting teams.
Managing Real Madrid presents a different challenge due to the immense expectations and pressure. However, a manager of his caliber needs to take such a step, and he has earned the opportunity to prove himself at this level. The job is likely his if he desires it, and it seems highly probable that he does.
Adrian Whitmore