Importance Score: 45 / 100 🔵
Real Madrid Eyes Replacements Amid Ancelotti Brazil Speculation
Following Real Madrid’s Champions League quarter-final elimination, the Spanish giants are reportedly evaluating potential managers to lead their Club World Cup campaign, with Carlo Ancelotti’s future at the club uncertain amid strong links to the Brazil national team job. The Club World Cup is understood to be a high priority tournament for Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, adding pressure to secure a capable coach for the competition.
Ancelotti’s Future in Doubt
Carlo Ancelotti’s position at Real Madrid has come under scrutiny after the team’s comprehensive 5-1 aggregate defeat to Arsenal in the Champions League quarter-finals. Adding to the speculation, the 65-year-old Italian manager is heavily tipped for the Brazil national team role after Dorival Junior was dismissed following Brazil’s 4-1 loss to Argentina in a World Cup qualifier.
Reports suggest Ancelotti could potentially depart Madrid as soon as April 26, after the Copa del Rey final. It is understood that representatives have engaged in discussions with Ancelotti, as Brazil aims to appoint a new head coach before the June international break.
Managerial Options for Real Madrid
According to Spanish publication Marca, Real Madrid’s leadership is actively exploring managerial options for the Club World Cup. This tournament is considered of paramount importance by club president Florentino Perez.
Xabi Alonso: Top Target
Bayer Leverkusen’s highly-rated coach, Xabi Alonso, is reportedly Real Madrid’s primary target to permanently succeed Ancelotti. The former Real Madrid player is favored for a potential return to the club in the summer.
While Real Madrid are believed to be considering triggering Alonso’s release clause, uncertainties remain regarding his willingness to assume the role in June. The timing presents a challenge, as Alonso would have limited preparation time with the squad before the Club World Cup, given La Liga concludes on May 25 and Real Madrid’s campaign commences on June 18. Furthermore, numerous Real Madrid players are expected to participate in international matches prior to the tournament.
Interim Solutions: Raul and Solari
Real Madrid’s hierarchy are reportedly contemplating appointing either club icon Raul or Santiago Solari as interim managers.
Raul: Club Legend
Raul, a legendary figure at Real Madrid with 323 goals in 741 appearances, has been the head coach of Real Madrid’s reserve team since 2019, providing him with familiarity with the club’s structure and some of its younger players.
Santiago Solari: Director and Former Manager
Santiago Solari currently serves as Real Madrid’s director of football since December 2023. He previously managed Real Madrid for five months during the 2018-19 season, offering prior experience at the helm, albeit for a short period. Solari returned to the club after a stint managing Mexican side America.
Club World Cup Significance
The Club World Cup holds significant prestige for Real Madrid, who have won the competition a record five times in its previous format. This summer’s tournament in the United States marks the inaugural edition of FIFA’s expanded 32-team Club World Cup.
Real Madrid are set to compete against Saudi Arabian team Al Hilal, Mexican side Pachuca, and Austrian club Red Bull Salzburg in the group stage of the revamped tournament. The outcome of their managerial situation will be crucial as they aim for success in this prestigious competition.