Real Madrid is preparing for a historic transition. The club’s ambitious, long-term vision looks to make Xabi Alonso the third consecutive manager to follow Carlo Ancelotti, who it should be noted, first arrived in 2013. Their capricious figurehead manager is increasingly in the hotseat regarding his long-term prospects. He’s planned on departing at the end of the season. This transition raises questions about the team’s direction and potential new signings, particularly with the possible addition of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who could thrive under Alonso’s guidance.
As Los Blancos wrap up their LaLiga season, the rumors regarding Ancelotti’s exit have only heated up. Barcelona are four points clear at the top and have had an outstanding campaign. On the other hand, Real Madrid’s lackluster form casts worries over their prospects of winning the title back. Under the given conditions, plenty are still focused on the positive future prospects that Alonso’s leadership will bring to the club.
Ancelotti’s Uncertain Future
Carlo Ancelotti has been at the heart of the discussion surrounding Real Madrid’s future. His collective victory lap has seen enough accomplishments and heartaches to fill a lifetime. As the season begins to draw to a close, an ominous sense of finality looms.
It’s just all of this is so extreme and obviously planned. I’m really committed to the here and now and don’t want to talk about what’s coming next for me. I understand that’s a let down for [the press corps], but I don’t give a damn! – Carlo Ancelotti
He even demands that we only think about the present. He knows that his time at the helm is coming to an end. He stated, “Whatever happens, it will be a fantastic farewell,” indicating an understanding of his impending exit. Ancelotti has promised to talk about his future after the final match of the season on May 25. The move speaks to his willingness to keep the focus on making his team better rather than on needless speculation.
For those keeping track, Real Madrid’s management is already thinking past Ancelotti, with Alonso becoming the most prominent candidate for the gig. His successful spell at Bayer Leverkusen has earned him the reputation as one of the most talented young coaches in the game. Now, he’s prepared for the bigger challenge.
Xabi Alonso’s Rise as a Manager
When he took over Bayer Leverkusen three years ago, Xabi Alonso had never managed higher than the youth level, but his rapid rise hasn’t gone unnoticed. His immense experience and man-management skills would surely earn him respect in any footballing dressing. That managerial experience makes him the perfect candidate to succeed Ancelotti.
As Alonso’s time at Leverkusen comes to an end, making him more available Real Madrid seems to be lining him up. The club have made Alonso their long-term first choice. The second element to his favor is their love for his tactical acumen and for his deep understanding of Real Madrid’s culture. Furthermore, Leverkusen CEO Fernando Carro has stated that the Bundesliga club would not obstruct Alonso’s potential move should he wish to join Los Blancos.
With just a week or two before the upcoming Club World Cup, Alonso would face a considerable challenge in adapting to his new role at Real Madrid. Talent evaluators have been consistently impressed with his ability to pivot, and that instinct will be key if he replaces Ancelotti from day one.
Speculation on Player Transfers
As seen with these recent managerial changes, conversations have been warm on potential player transfers, specifically Alexander-Arnold, though he’s needed elsewhere. ESPN analysts Gab Marcotti and Julien Laurens examined what a move could look like for Alexander-Arnold at Real Madrid, if Alonso takes over as expected. His playing style and skill set dovetails with Alonso’s tactical philosophy like a glove. This alignment makes him a very attractive candidate for the club.
Despite all the talent on Real Madrid’s current squad, their struggles over the past few games raise doubts on how they’ll be able to succeed going forward. Assuming Alonso comes in, he’ll likely want to add to the roster. He would have the opportunity of importing disruptive new players, such as Alexander-Arnold, to increase competitiveness in domestic and global competitions.
Real Madrid are not out of the title race in LaLiga just yet. Their chances dim with each passing match as Barcelona is having a great season, scoring 91 goals to date. The expectation is that Alonso will aim to revitalize the squad and restore its winning mentality once he takes charge.
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