Carlo Ancelotti`s second tenure as Real Madrid coach is likely coming to an end soon. Speculation suggests he will leave in the coming weeks, raising the question of who will succeed him at the helm of one of Europe`s most ambitious clubs.
Upon his return in 2021, Ancelotti brought stability to Real Madrid, securing two La Liga titles and two Champions League trophies. He also oversaw the integration of new stars like Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham. However, his second stint was not intended to be permanent, and rumors of his move to coach the Brazilian national team have intensified recently. While his departure seems probable, it remains uncertain if he will remain with Real Madrid until the Club World Cup in June.
Regardless of the exact timing of Ancelotti`s exit, his successor faces a significant challenge. Real Madrid`s Champions League defeat to Arsenal highlighted the work needed. The team, despite its star power, lacks balance, with an inconsistent defense and aging key players indicating a need for fresh talent in several positions. The new manager must create a fresh vision for the team while meeting the club`s demanding expectations for trophies, even if a rebuild is necessary.
As Real Madrid prepares to announce Ancelotti`s replacement, here is a ranking of potential candidates:
5. Jurgen Klopp
Jurgen Klopp`s name has surprisingly emerged, possibly due to reports from Brazil suggesting his dissatisfaction in his Red Bull global soccer role, which he assumed just months ago. While his potential impact on Real Madrid`s star-studded squad is intriguing, this move appears highly improbable. Klopp`s agent has stated that the former Liverpool manager is `very happy` in his current position. Therefore, Klopp can likely be ruled out.
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 promotion. However, his relative inexperience might be a drawback for such a high-pressure role. His situation is comparable to Santiago Solari, who moved from managing Real Madrid`s reserves to the senior team in 2018 but was dismissed after a Champions League exit 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 available after leaving the club in 2021. However, a Zidane return might not be a long-term solution for Real Madrid. It`s speculated that he has been waiting for the opportunity to coach the French national team.
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 if they replace Ange Postecoglou. Iraola is likely to be considered by several clubs in the coming months, and a move from Bournemouth could happen soon. However, similar to Raul, taking on the Real Madrid job might be too early in his career.
1. Xabi Alonso
Since Xabi Alonso`s Bayer Leverkusen began their dominant Bundesliga season, he has been seen as a potential candidate for top jobs at his former clubs: Liverpool, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid. While Liverpool and Bayern have gone in different directions, the timing seems perfect for Real Madrid to pursue Alonso. He is arguably the most impressive young manager currently available. His achievements at Leverkusen, transforming them from relegation contenders to Bundesliga champions within two years in a league typically dominated by Bayern, are remarkable. He has implemented an attractive playing style and developed young talents like Florian Wirtz, making Leverkusen one of Europe`s most exciting teams.
Moving to Real Madrid would be a different challenge, with immense expectations and pressure. However, a manager of his quality needs to take such a step, and he has earned the chance to prove himself at this level. The job is likely his if he wants it, and it`s hard to imagine he wouldn`t.
