Zidane is Real Madrid’s favourite to replace Xabi Alonso if results do not improve quickly, but he is not the only name on the list.
Xabi Alonso is going through his most vulnerable period since taking over the charge of Real Madrid. Recent results have not been favourable for the team, and – even more worrying for the board – the relationship between the coach from Tolosa and parts of the squad is starting to show signs of wear and tear. Internal tension and inconsistency on the pitch have raised doubts in the offices at the Santiago Bernabéu, where possible scenarios are already being considered if the situation does not improve immediately.
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In this context, Florentino Pérez is clear that if there is a change on the coaching bench, the first priority will be to bring back Zinedine Zidane. The Frenchman, an undisputed legend at Real Madrid and the architect of one of the club’s most illustrious periods, tops the list of candidates. However, the club is aware that his return is not uncomplicated, and is therefore already considering high-level options.
Zidane – Florentino Pérez’s dream
Zinedine Zidane is much more than just a candidate for Real Madrid’s coaching job. He represents an emotional connection to the club, a figure who can create consensus both in the dressing room and among the fans. His previous successes, with several national and international titles, have earned him a special status that no other coach can currently match.
From a sporting perspective, Zidane would be a perfect fit as a crisis manager. He knows the club, the pressure from the environment, and not least how to handle dressing rooms full of stars. The board’s plan would be to offer him a short- or medium-term project, with full sporting powers and a top-class squad. The big question is whether the Frenchman would be willing to take on that level of demand again, considering his desire to coach the French national team after the 2026 World Cup.
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Jürgen Klopp – the luxurious alternative
In case Zidane declines, the name that gets the most attention as a plan B is Jürgen Klopp. The German coach has been away from the sidelines since leaving Liverpool, where he had a historic period filled with titles and a recognizable style of play around the world. His character, intensity, and leadership skills make him an ideal profile to revitalize a team that needs a psychological and competitive boost.
Klopp’s arrival would mean a radical change in the team’s philosophy. Going from a more positional and pragmatic coach to one based on high pressure, aggression and fast play, could restore the competitive identity of the white team. Although his signing would not have been easy, Real Madrid believe that an ambitious offer, both sporting and financial, could make him reconsider his temporary retirement and accept the biggest challenge of his career in a new country.
A near future full of uncertainty
While speculation abounds around names and potential replacements, the reality is that Xabi Alonso is still the coach of Real Madrid – even if his room for manoeuvre is shrinking. The upcoming matches will be crucial in determining whether he can turn the situation around and regain the trust of both the board and the squad. A period of good results can completely change the landscape and give him breathing space to continue with his project.
If not, the club will activate its emergency preparedness plan. Zidane remains the first choice because of everything he represents, but the Klopp option gives a significant part of Real Madrid’s supporters a good feeling about what he can contribute in terms of character, identity and competitiveness. The final decision will depend on the team’s development in the coming weeks, a crucial period that will set the direction for the most demanding coaching job in the world in the short term.
