Xabi Alonso's Potential Successor Drops Bombshell One-Word Answer About Real Madrid Move

Real Madrid Castilla head coach Álvaro Arbeloa dismissed speculation about potentially stepping up to manage the senior squad instead of Xabi Alonso, offering a brief "no" when questioned about the possibility on Saturday night.

Uncertainty clouds Alonso's position as manager at the Santiago Bernabéu. The Spanish tactician finds himself under intense pressure following Los Blancos' disappointing streak; the Madrid powerhouse has secured victory in only two of their previous eight fixtures.

Spanish media outlets suggest the former Bayer Leverkusen manager has limited time remaining to demonstrate his ability to guide the world's most prestigious club, potentially triggering discussions about his replacement.

Arbeloa, who currently oversees the club's B team, emerges as one of the names being considered to succeed Alonso. However, the 42-year-old showed no interest in discussing a potential promotion from Castilla to Real Madrid's top job.

"My role is as Castilla's manager and that's where my attention lies, with my squad, the upcoming fixtures, training sessions, and nothing beyond that scope," he stated firmly.

Arbeloa further confirmed to journalists that the club hasn't approached him regarding any potential managerial transition and emphasized his complete dedication to Castilla, who currently occupy fourth place in Spain's third division.

Arbeloa: Those Writing Off Alonso, Real Madrid Are 'Completely Mistaken'

While declining to discuss potentially replacing Alonso, Arbeloa expressed his backing for both the Spaniard and Real Madrid: "Those who believe Real Madrid is finished are completely mistaken."

The 15-time European Cup winners recently suffered a 2–1 setback against Manchester City in the Champions League, following closely after a disappointing 2–0 defeat to Celta Vigo. Los Blancos find themselves seven points behind Barcelona in the La Liga table—though they possess a match in hand against Alaves on Sunday—despite leading by five points at the beginning of November.

This troubling sequence of results has potentially created an opportunity for Arbeloa to emulate Zinedine Zidane's path and assume control of the first team should Alonso be relieved of his duties. The French legend has also been mentioned as a possible candidate, alongside Jürgen Klopp.

The former Liverpool manager appears an improbable option, however, considering his intention to step away from coaching and his current position as Red Bull's Head of Global Soccer. Nevertheless, the growing roster of potential successors adds additional strain on the struggling Alonso.