The elimination against Arsenal has been a very hard blow for Real Madrid. Ancelotti's team fell in the quarterfinals resoundingly. The Champions League was the main objective, and it has slipped away again.
The London team was superior in all aspects of the game. This defeat has caused a lot of discontent within the sports management. Important decisions are looming for Bernabéu's immediate future.
Xabi Alonso in the Pole Position to Replace Carlo Ancelotti
Florentino Pérez is already considering a change on the bench for the next season. Carlo Ancelotti's cycle seems to have come to an end. His work is appreciated, but the results haven't accompanied this time.
The main favorite to take charge of the project is Xabi Alonso. His career in Germany has completely convinced the white board. Everything points to it becoming official after the Club World Cup.
Xabi Alonso Surprises with a Direct Request to Real Madrid
The coach from Tolosa wants to arrive with room to decide on signings and departures. He will only accept the position if he can make key decisions in the group's composition. He has already put an unexpected name on the table.
According to media close to the white environment, Xabi Alonso has requested an addition from Athletic. It is a defender with a lot of character and great performance this season. His name is not what many expected.
Dani Vivian: The Center-Back Xabi Alonso Wants for Real Madrid
The one chosen by Xabi Alonso is Dani Vivian, a reference in Athletic's defense. The center-back is valued at about €40 million. His season under Ernesto Valverde's orders has been outstanding.
Dani Vivian stands out for his tactical solidity, forcefulness, and good aerial play. Additionally, he possesses great leadership ability despite his youth. Xabi considers him ready for a leap to the European elite.
Dani Vivian is a More Affordable Option Than Other Defenders
Compared to names like Huijsen, Laporte, or Van Dijk, Dani Vivian is more accessible. Not only is he younger, but he also has a much lower cost. His arrival would allow reinforcing the defense without breaking the economic balance.
Moreover, he is well acquainted with the demands of Spanish soccer and would adapt quickly. The challenge will be to convince Athletic, who doesn't want to part with their mainstay. Everything will depend on how the negotiation progresses.
Athletic Could Resist Negotiating for Their Star Defender
The Basque entity has no intention of letting go of one of its pillars. Vivian has a contract and is a key piece for the future. Even so, a firm offer from Real Madrid could change everything.
Xabi Alonso is convinced that he can bring out his best version in Chamartín. His insistence could be key in this unexpected operation. Time will tell if Florentino yields to the request.
Florentino Already Considers the Conditions Imposed by His New Coach
The president knows that, to convince Xabi, he will have to yield in certain aspects. The demands are reasonable and fit into the medium-term project. The bet on national talent also plays in Vivian's favor.
For now, nothing is closed, but the intentions are clear. Xabi wants to surround himself with profiles that fit his style. And Dani Vivian is undoubtedly one of them.