New Delhi: Carlo Ancelotti’s position as Real Madrid manager is under increasing scrutiny following the team’s devastating 5-2 loss to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final. According to Relevo, the upcoming Copa del Rey clash against Celta Vigo could prove pivotal in determining the Italian’s future. With Real Madrid’s hierarchy reportedly unhappy with recent results, a managerial change may be on the cards if Ancelotti fails to deliver a turnaround.
This season has been a rollercoaster for Los Blancos, with Ancelotti facing criticism after a string of disappointing performances. Losses in key fixtures, including defeats to Milan and Barcelona, raised questions about his tactics and team selection.
While Ancelotti managed to steady the ship briefly with an impressive run of form, the humiliating nature of their recent El Clasico defeat has rekindled doubts about his ability to guide the team to major trophies this season.
Santiago Solari as an interim option, Xabi Alonso as the long-term solution
🚨 Santiago Solari is the first choice to replace Carlo Ancelotti IF he’s fired. @relevo pic.twitter.com/OruzXzAyyJ
— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) January 13, 2025
According to reports, Santiago Solari is the preferred interim option should Real Madrid decide to part ways with Ancelotti. Solari, who previously managed the team in the 2018/19 season, currently serves as the director of professional football at the club. Despite his past tenure being less than stellar, his familiarity with the squad and tactical understanding make him a logical short-term choice.
In the long term, Real Madrid are reportedly eyeing Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso as Ancelotti’s successor. The former Real Madrid midfielder has impressed in Germany, developing a reputation for his tactical acumen and ability to nurture young talent. Sources suggest Alonso is confident he will eventually take over at Los Blancos, though his current contract with Leverkusen runs until 2026.
Ancelotti’s immediate future depends on Real Madrid’s performances in the coming weeks, starting with the Copa del Rey. A failure against Celta Vigo could force Florentino Perez to act swiftly, with Solari stepping in as caretaker until Alonso becomes available. For now, the pressure remains squarely on Ancelotti to deliver results and salvage a season that is quickly slipping away.
Reports suggest Real Madrid are exploring options to replace Carlo Ancelotti, considering Santiago Solari as an interim and Bayer Leverkusen’s Xabi Alonso as the long-term solution. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
