Real Madrid Managerial Crisis: Klopp, Zidane, and the Top Contenders to Replace Alonso (2026)

Is Xabi Alonso's time at Real Madrid already up? It seems the pressure is on, and the search for a new manager is heating up. But the candidates… well, let's just say they're not exactly setting the world on fire.

Manchester City's recent victory over Real Madrid, a 2-1 defeat, has reportedly intensified the situation. Whispers suggest Alonso may have lost the support of the dressing room due to his coaching methods. So, who's in the running to take over the reins? Let's dive into the bookies' favorites.

10) Simeone Inzaghi: Having won a Serie A title with Inter, Inzaghi's recent Champions League final defeat with PSG raises questions about his suitability for a club with Real Madrid's European pedigree.

9) Steven Gerrard: Could an iconic midfielder from the 2000s era work again? It's a gamble, but Real has tried it before.

8) Unai Emery: Experienced and successful, Emery ticks many boxes. However, his mixed results at PSG and Arsenal, particularly the infamous 'La Remontada' with Barcelona, might give the Real Madrid board pause. Is experience enough?

7) Fabian Hurzeler: At a young age, Hurzeler might be a great coach, but is he ready for the top level?

6) Roberto De Zerbi: De Zerbi's success with Brighton and Marseille has caught attention. His exciting style of play would be a hit with fans, but his 'combustible nature' might not gel with Florentino Perez. Could his personality be a deal-breaker?

5) Andoni Iraola: The Bournemouth boss was linked with Real before Alonso's appointment. However, would he command the respect of the egos in the Real dressing room?

4) Oliver Glasner: Glasner has done a great job at Crystal Palace, but the Real board might not see him as a top choice.

3) Alvaro Arbeloa: In the absence of a clear frontrunner, Arbeloa, currently managing Real Madrid Castilla, is a potential candidate. Is promoting from within the best approach?

2) Zinedine Zidane: The iconic former player hasn't managed since leaving Real Madrid. Could he be the answer?

1) Jurgen Klopp: The ex-Liverpool manager has taken a break, but could Real Madrid be tempting? Some reports suggest he would only consider Brazil or Real Madrid. However, it's hard to imagine Klopp tolerating the high standards that Alonso is struggling to meet.

What do you think? Which candidate do you believe would be the best fit for Real Madrid? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Real Madrid Managerial Crisis: Klopp, Zidane, and the Top Contenders to Replace Alonso (2026)
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