10 Managers Most Likely to Replace Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid

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**10 Managers Most Likely to Replace Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid**

**Real Madrid**

**By Robin Mumford – 6 days ago**

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**Ancelotti**

 

**Overview**

Carlo Ancelotti’s future at Real Madrid is unclear after a string of poor results, and it seems his passion for the job may be waning.

 

Leading candidates to succeed him include Jose Mourinho, Mikel Arteta, and Jurgen Klopp.

 

Xabi Alonso stands out thanks to his sharp tactical mind and deep ties to the club.

 

Even though he’s still praised as one of football’s best minds – no one else has five Champions League wins to their name – Ancelotti’s role at Real Madrid no longer feels completely secure. This campaign, Los Blancos have looked like they’re still stuck in a post-glory slump.

 

Just like Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, *”Don Carlo”* appears to be drained. What used to be serene composure now resembles indifference. But while Guardiola has publicly committed to rekindling his passion at City following his contract renewal, Ancelotti seems less driven.

 

Be it a break of his own choosing, a new opportunity, or a decision from the boardroom, change appears to be on the horizon—especially after the damaging 3-0 loss to Arsenal in the Champions League quarter-finals. So, who could step in if his era ends? Here’s a list of 10 leading options who might be next in line at the Bernabeu.

 

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**10. Jose Mourinho**

Among football’s most intimidating leaders, Mourinho’s previous Real Madrid stint (2010–2013) saw him collect a La Liga title. A return could be a chance to finish what he started. Still, his increasing volatility—highlighted by a recent conflict with Galatasaray’s coach—could be a deterrent. He’s still an option, though possibly a risky one.

 

**9. Antonio Conte**

Conte is a divisive figure. If the goal is immediate success rather than a long-term project, he might be ideal. The Italian has multiple Serie A titles and a Premier League win to his name. However, history shows he doesn’t stay long before clashes with leadership arise, as seen at Chelsea and Spurs.

 

**8. Unai Emery**

A top-tier man-manager, Emery’s achievements with Sevilla and Aston Villa demonstrate his capacity to deliver on the big stage. Despite a short-lived Arsenal run, he’s rebuilt his reputation and could easily be in the conversation for the next top-level appointment. His Europa League success with Villarreal in 2021 further supports his candidacy.

 

**7. Alvaro Arbeloa**

Real Madrid may avoid an outside search and promote Under-19 coach Arbeloa. Deeply rooted in Spanish tactical tradition, he led the youth squad to a treble in 2022–23. While not widely recognized yet, he seems destined for a senior role soon. With his background and charisma, he may be Spain’s next top coaching talent.

 

**6. Mikel Arteta**

One of Spain’s brightest coaches, Arteta has taken Arsenal from struggling to title-challenging under his guidance after serving as Pep Guardiola’s assistant. After defeating Ancelotti’s Real Madrid, there’s a sense of poetic symmetry if he were to succeed him. Though silverware has eluded him so far, his vision and drive are undeniable.

 

**5. Jurgen Klopp**

Could it happen? Despite stepping back from coaching and taking a new position as Red Bull’s *”Global Head of Soccer,”* Klopp’s name keeps popping up. Given how quickly he returned to work after Dortmund, a surprise comeback isn’t out of the question. But considering he just started a new role, it feels unlikely.

 

**4. Zinedine Zidane**

Zidane’s first managerial spell brought three consecutive Champions League titles, alongside other major trophies. After stepping down in 2018 and returning in 2021 to win more silverware, fans wonder if a third spell could happen. With his strong record and club legacy, a comeback would thrill many.

 

**3. Andoni Iraola**

His effective playing style and the belief he instilled at Bournemouth helped them achieve a record Premier League points total, surpassing previous highs under Eddie Howe. Although his experience with a large budget is unproven, his impact so far puts him among the favorites. A bold but possibly inspired choice.

 

**2. Simone Inzaghi**

With proven success at the top level, including a Serie A title in 2023/24 and a Champions League final run with Inter, Inzaghi is a logical contender. His ability to navigate critical moments and tactical flexibility make him a strong match for Real Madrid’s winning mentality.

 

**1. Xabi Alonso**

Alonso has transformed Bayer Leverkusen, losing just nine of 88 Bundesliga games and completing an unbeaten league season. His only setback was a Europa League final loss to Atalanta. Deeply familiar with Real Madrid and possessing the style, poise, and tactical clarity that fit their identity, it seems only a matter of time before he makes the move. His new contract may have been signed with that future role in mind.

 

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