Real Madrid are going through a period of uncertainty at the club's management. Florentino Pérez, the club's president, is beginning to plan the team's future, and rumors about possible changes in the coaching staff are not stopping.
Carlo Ancelotti, the current manager, has been key to the club's recent successes, but his continuity is increasingly in doubt. The results are not going well and Ancelotti is in the spotlight.
According to Mario Cortegana, a journalist specialising in Real Madrid, Ancelotti's future will depend largely on results. Although the Italian coach has the support of the president, there are rumors within the club that his time at the club could be coming to an end.
Xabi Alonso, Florentino's Favorite
The name that is most likely to be a possible replacement is Xabi Alonso . The current Bayer Leverkusen manager is impressing with his performance in the Bundesliga and in European competitions. His play style, his leadership and his connection with the philosophy of Real Madrid make him an ideal candidate.
Florentino Pérez sees Xabi Alonso as a young coach with potential and who knows the club well. He was a Real Madrid player between 2009 and 2014, a period in which he left his mark both on and off the field. Now, his possible return as coach could mark the beginning of a new era at the club.
Ancelotti, with time counting
Although Ancelotti has a good relationship with the board, his continuity is not guaranteed. The coach has assured that he will only leave if he decides to, although there's already talk at the club that his time could be coming to an end.
Cortegana says Ancelotti doesn't feel under pressure and will stay as long as results allow. However, Xabi Alonso's shadow grows ever larger.
Xabi Alonso remains silent
Xabi Alonso, meanwhile, hasn't made any statements regarding his future. At Bayer Leverkusen he remains focused on the team's objectives and avoids fuelling rumors. However, his name continues to appear in conversations within the Real Madrid leadership.
Florentino Pérez's next decision will be crucial for the future of the club. With Ancelotti on the ropes and Xabi Alonso a possible successor, Real Madrid could be close to a major 180-degree turnaround in their management.