Potential Candidates to Replace Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid Revealed
The managerial position at Real Madrid is one of the most prestigious in the world of football, and there might be a vacancy at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu in 2024 if Carlo Ancelotti decides to move on. Real Madrid’s fanbase is known for being demanding, as the club’s rich history is built on a foundation of domestic and European success. Ancelotti is still highly regarded by the fans, but with no progress regarding a contract extension beyond the 2023/24 season, it seems likely that his second stint at the club will come to an end.
As speculation grows about Ancelotti’s potential departure, there is a division among opinions regarding his replacement. Some believe the club should appoint a rising young coach, while others argue for bringing in an experienced leader. The Sporting News has compiled a list of potential candidates for the job.
Carlo Ancelotti’s Future at Real Madrid
Ancelotti has expressed his focus on the current season and his desire to win at least one major trophy after falling short in both La Liga and the Champions League in 2023. His second spell at Real Madrid ended triumphantly in the 2021/22 campaign, with the team clinching a league title and a European trophy. However, last season, they were unable to replicate that success as Barcelona won La Liga and Manchester City claimed the Champions League title. Despite this, Ancelotti’s standing in Madrid is strong enough that he was not dismissed ahead of the 2023/24 season. Rumors suggest that he is open to taking over the Brazil national team in 2024 as a new challenge.
Potential Replacements for Ancelotti
Raul Gonzalez
Madrid native Raul remains an iconic figure for the fans, having scored 228 goals in 550 La Liga appearances as the club’s main striker from 1994 to 2010. He holds the record for the most appearances in La Liga and all competitions for Real Madrid and is third on the all-time top scorer list, behind Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema. After retiring from playing, Raul took charge of the Real Madrid Castilla (reserve) team in 2019 and has impressed with his ability to develop young talent. His strong connection to the club’s history and his respected reputation among the players make him a strong contender.
Xabi Alonso
Alonso is seen as a perfect blend of fresh ideas and top-flight experience. His reputation has been on the rise since taking charge of Bayer Leverkusen. Although he doesn’t have the same legendary status at Real Madrid as Raul, Alonso was still a highly regarded player for both Los Blancos and the Spanish national team, winning multiple titles. His coaching journey began with the Real Sociedad B team before moving to Leverkusen in 2022, where he guided the club to a sixth-place finish in the Bundesliga and a Europa League semifinal. Leverkusen has already expressed nervousness about Alonso’s potential return to Madrid. If he continues to show improvement in the upcoming season, he could surpass Raul as the frontrunner for the Real Madrid job.
Zinedine Zidane
Zidane’s name is often linked with a return to Real Madrid, as he had previously achieved tremendous success at the club. After being promoted from the reserve team to the top job in 2016, Zidane won the Champions League within four months. He went on to secure La Liga and two more Champions League titles, becoming the first manager to win three consecutive European trophies. Although his departure in 2019 was met with some friction, his subsequent return in 2020 resulted in another La Liga triumph. However, his two-and-a-half-year absence from coaching has slightly affected his reputation. Club president Florentino Perez may be reluctant to give him a third opportunity unless there are limited options available.
Julian Nagelsmann
Nagelsmann caused a stir in German football with his departure from Bayern Munich in March. Real Madrid has been linked with the former RB Leipzig coach on several occasions, but the timing has never been right, given his career in Germany. However, the recent dismissal of Hansi Flick as the German national team boss could pave the way for Nagelsmann’s return to the market. His current contract only runs until after Euro 2024, and if he falls short of expectations in the tournament, Real Madrid could consider him as a potential replacement for Ancelotti.
Antonio Conte
Conte’s departure from Tottenham in March marked the end of a tumultuous relationship with the club. He is known for implementing his methods quickly and winning trophies, although his departures have often been surrounded by controversy. Real Madrid often hires managers with an established track record, though long-term planning is not always a priority. However, the current picture is different, as the team boasts a group of talented players led by Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Eduardo Camanvinga. Conte’s confrontational style may not be the best fit, but it’s worth considering given the high expectations of the club.
Choosing the Right Leader
Real Madrid faces a difficult decision in selecting their next manager. The club has thrived under veteran coaches like Ancelotti, Vicente del Bosque, and Zidane, with Zidane being the most successful internal promotion. If the club believes Raul can command the instant respect that Zidane enjoyed, he could be a strong option. However, his lack of experience with senior teams is a major drawback. Alonso’s blend of fresh ideas and top-flight experience make him an attractive choice, but his return to Madrid would depend on his performance with Leverkusen in the upcoming season. Zidane still has his supporters, but Perez may not be inclined to give him a third chance. Nagelsmann and Conte are both viable alternatives, albeit with potential concerns. Ultimately, Real Madrid will have to make a decision that meets the high expectations of the club and its fans.
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