Real Madrid's Next Mastermind: Ranking the Top 5 Candidates to Replace Xabi Alonso
Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso finds himself under pressure merely five months into the 2025–26 campaign, potentially paving the way for a high-profile replacement at football's most prestigious club.
Taking over from Carlo Ancelotti, widely regarded as the club's most successful manager ever, was always destined to be difficult for Alonso. However, his impressive work at Bayer Leverkusen, combined with the world-class roster awaiting him in Madrid, raised expectations to astronomical levels.
The 44-year-old initially guided Los Blancos to an almost flawless beginning, but has since struggled. The Spanish powerhouse has secured victory in only two of their previous eight fixtures across all tournaments, raising doubts about Alonso's position at the helm of his former team.
Should Real Madrid's decline persist, the coach will probably need to seek new employment. Club president Florentino Pérez would then face the challenge of identifying an appropriate replacement. But which contenders stand the greatest chance of securing football's most demanding position?
5. Cesc Fàbregas
Merely two years past, the idea of former Barcelona icon Cesc Fàbregas assuming control at Real Madrid would have appeared nearly absurd. The Spaniard had recently hung up his boots and possessed zero coaching credentials.
However, Fàbregas has emerged as one of today's most promising young coaches through his achievements at Como 1907. The 38-year-old guided the Italian side to 10th place in Serie A during 2024–25, marking the club's inaugural season in Italy's premier division in over two decades.
Currently in his second complete season as manager, the former playmaker has Como positioned sixth in the standings, nurturing young prospects including ex-Real Madrid players Nico Paz and Jacobo Ramón.
Nevertheless, Fàbregas would presumably never abandon Como during the season, and Los Blancos may lack the luxury of patience.
Likelihood Rating: 2/10
4. Jürgen Klopp
When examining available managers with credentials suitable for the world's biggest club, Real Madrid would struggle to find many superior to Jürgen Klopp. The German departed Liverpool following the 2023–24 season, pledging to step away from management temporarily.
Klopp honored his commitment and accepted Red Bull's Head of Global Soccer position in January. The 58-year-old has been connected to a potential return to the sidelines, particularly if Los Blancos make an approach.
A coach with experience winning virtually everything across England, Germany and Europe would perfectly suit the 15-time European champions, especially considering Klopp's intensity and tactical acumen.
However, Red Bull executive Oliver Mintzlaff stated the former Liverpool manager "has made it clear" he currently has no desire to return to coaching.
Likelihood Rating: 3/10
3. Raúl
Prior to Alonso's emergence at Bayer Leverkusen, Raúl probably expected to succeed Ancelotti. The club icon coached Real Madrid Castilla for six seasons, waiting patiently for a potential opportunity.
Raúl nurtured the finest talent emerging from La Fábrica, including current first-team players Raúl Asencio and Gonzalo García. However, he was eventually passed over for Alonso, leading the former forward to depart the reserve squad at last season's conclusion.
Even if Los Blancos don't view Raúl as a permanent solution, they might still approach the Spaniard to attempt rescuing the remainder of the 2025–26 campaign. He possesses experience both playing for Real Madrid and coaching Castilla, a proven formula for the club historically.
Despite these advantages, Raúl would probably serve only as a final option if the Spanish giants couldn't secure either of the next two candidates on this list.
Likelihood Rating: 5/10
2. Zinedine Zidane
It's obvious that if Real Madrid could choose freely, Zinedine Zidane would replace Alonso. The Frenchman's impact at the club, both as player and manager, remains unparalleled.
Zidane handled the biggest personalities and egos during his initial tenure with the Spanish giants, guiding them to three straight Champions League victories. His experience with Cristiano Ronaldo and others provides him the foundation to lead the team's current generation of stars.
The 53-year-old hasn't accepted a position since departing Real Madrid for the second time in 2021; Zidane is believed to be awaiting the opportunity to manage France following the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
But the legendary figure was present for Los Blancos' loss to Manchester City on Wednesday night, sparking Madridista dreams of his potential return. Zidane would simply need to accept a temporary diversion before pursuing his ambition to coach Les Bleus.
Likelihood Rating: 7/10
1. Álvaro Arbeloa
Though it may not represent the most thrilling choice, Álvaro Arbeloa fronts the queue to succeed Real Madrid should Alonso face dismissal. The Spaniard, who took over from Raúl at Real Madrid Castilla, represents the most natural fit for the Spanish giants given their present situation.
Arbeloa has shown promise during his initial months with the reserve squad and is considered capable of advancing should his services be required. The 42-year-old could mirror Zidane's path, though comparing their potential results would be unfair to both coaches.
Even as a temporary appointment, Arbeloa possesses the necessary qualities to restore calm in the Spanish capital. The two-time Champions League victor has been part of the club's coaching structure since 2020, progressing through La Fábrica's ranks.
While other candidates may appear more impressive theoretically, they also present logistical and financial complications. Arbeloa represents neither; he could join training with the current squad within hours of receiving Pérez's call.
Likelihood Rating: 8.5/10
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