Author: Shreyash Sharma
Real Madrid are facing the possibility of parting ways with their current coach, Carlo Ancelotti, as the current season draws to a close. Reports have emerged suggesting that the legendary Italian coach will leave the club to take on the role of managing the Brazilian national team from the 2024 season. Ancelotti’s tenure at Real Madrid has been marked by success, including a continental double in the 2021/22 season. However, the club’s attention has already turned to finding a suitable replacement for next season.
According to the respected German newspaper BILD, the Real Madrid board is considering an intriguing option for the position of coach: former player Xabi Alonso. The Spanish midfielder had a remarkable five-season spell with the Spanish capital club before ending his playing career with Bayern Munich. Alonso has recently embarked on a coaching career in Europe and has attracted attention for his impressive work with Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga.
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Alonso’s journey as a coach began with Real Sociedad’s B team, where he honed his skills before taking charge of a struggling Bayer Leverkusen side that was in the Bundesliga relegation zone. The former World Cup winner made an immediate impact, orchestrating a remarkable turnaround for Leverkusen. The team climbed up the table and secured a commendable sixth place, earning them a place in the Europa League. In addition, Alonso’s tactical acumen took the team to the semi-finals of the Conference League, narrowly missing out on a place in the final after a hard-fought battle with José Mourinho’s Roma.
Although Alonso was linked with the Tottenham Hotspur coaching vacancy at the start of the summer, he has committed to staying at Bayer Leverkusen for the 2023/24 Bundesliga season. However, his strong links with his former club, Real Madrid, could make a return to Spain imminent as the club searches for a successor to Ancelotti.
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Alonso’s time at Real Madrid, which included being part of the historic “La Decima” winning team in 2014, solidified his status as a beloved figure among the fans. What’s more, his astute tactical understanding has earned him praise from renowned coaches, including Mourinho. With Real Madrid embarking on a new chapter and undergoing significant changes, Alonso’s familiarity with the club and his vast experience as a player could position him as one of the main candidates for the manager’s job.
It’s worth noting that Real Madrid may not be the only ones closely monitoring Alonso’s situation. The Spanish midfielder also enjoyed a successful five-year spell at Liverpool, where he won the Champions League. Although Liverpool recently extended Jurgen Klopp’s contract until 2026, Alonso’s possible suitability for the club could also catch their eye.