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Ancelotti's Replacement at Real Madrid After Xabi Alonso's 'No'

The Historic Option Real Madrid Has for the Bench After Xabi Alonso's Refusal

With an eye on the upcoming campaign, Real Madrid had planned a possible change on the bench. The doubts left by the team's performance under Ancelotti's leadership during the season positioned Xabi Alonso as the ideal candidate to take over. However, his recent decision to continue leading Bayer Leverkusen took the club by surprise.

With Xabi's arrival ruled out, the Madrid team is left with only one realistic alternative. To replace a legendary coach like Ancelotti, they could turn to another with history at the club: Zinedine Zidane. The Frenchman, away from coaching for several seasons, is once again strongly considered to embark on a third stint leading the team.

A man in a dark sweater brings his hand to his face in a sports setting.
Real Madrid Still Considers Xabi Alonso a Priority in Case Ancelotti Leaves | Real Madrid Confidencial

Having succeeded in his two previous stints as Real Madrid's coach, Zidane is the best option to replace Ancelotti. Moreover, his arrival would be extremely straightforward since the Frenchman has no contracts to fulfill or clauses to pay.

What Happens with Xabi Alonso?

After his success with Bayer Leverkusen, Xabi showed he has the necessary level to manage Real Madrid. By leading a team near relegation to conquer the Bundesliga undefeated, Real Madrid was confident in Xabi's arrival. His decision, however, has been an unexpected surprise, leaving Zidane as the only possible option.

Being responsible for the generation of three consecutive Champions League titles, Zidane has a great relationship with Real Madrid. Having shown during his two stints at Real Madrid his ability to lead the club to success, his return wouldn't be far-fetched.

His experience and ability to manage a squad full of stars endorse him as a coach up to the challenges of Madrid. Additionally, his competitive spirit is a quality he has always instilled in Real Madrid and would be extremely beneficial.

A bald man in a dark suit applauds in a stadium full of spectators.
Zinedine Zidane during his time as Real Madrid's coach | Real Madrid Confidencial

Who Could Be Carlo Ancelotti's Replacement?

After a glorious second stint leading Real Madrid, Carlo Ancelotti could be in his final months as the club's coach. Although nothing is confirmed yet, it's only a matter of time before we witness Zidane's return to Real Madrid.

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