Real Madrid’s shock decision for’after-Ancelotti upsets all plans

In the hot seat after a series of disappointing results, Carlo Ancelotti is waiting for a miracle. But in the event of a dismissal during the season, Real Madrid has already planned everything.

Following consecutive home losses to FC Barcelona (0-4) and AC Milan (1-3), Carlo Ancelotti’s future at Real Madrid is uncertain. The Italian coach is searching for ways to bring the team back to winning form after Toni Kroos’s retirement, which disrupted his tactical plans.

Even with Kylian Mbappe joining for free this summer from Paris Saint-Germain, Ancelotti has yet to find the right formula. However, in a surprising move reported by Marca on Wednesday, Real Madrid has reaffirmed its confidence in Ancelotti. For now, he is not at immediate risk of being dismissed, though that could change if the current slump continues.

No Zidane, Raul, and Solari as Emergency Options

Ancelotti’s potential dismissal has prompted Real Madrid to consider backup plans. If the club parts ways with him mid-season, Raul Gonzalez and Santiago Solari have been mentioned as interim options, according to Marca. Both are well-acquainted with the club—Raul heads Real Madrid Castilla and is respected for his work with young talent, though he is under pressure himself due to recent results. Solari, while not leaving a major mark as head coach in 2018-2019, could serve as a temporary leader. Real Madrid is not considering a third return of Zinedine Zidane after the disagreements with Florentino Perez in 2021.

Xabi Alonso as the Long-Term Solution?

If Ancelotti were to depart, Real Madrid might opt for a more lasting replacement. Xabi Alonso, currently coaching Bayer Leverkusen and known for his effective and appealing playing style, is considered the ideal candidate to reinvigorate the Madrid project, given his past as a Real Madrid player and his reputation as a tactician.

Alonso, however, will not leave Leverkusen mid-season, which is why Real Madrid could turn to Raul and Solari as interim options if needed. Under contract with the club until 2026, Ancelotti still has time to restore Real Madrid’s position in La Liga and, especially, in the Champions League this season.