The two managers who are currently the joint favourites to replace under-fire Xabi Alonso as Real Madrid manager have been named. Alonso was only appointed head coach of the Spanish giants in May but already finds himself under pressure following an underwhelming start to the 2025-26 season.
Los Blancos suffered a shock 2-0 defeat at home to Celta Vigo on Sunday night - a match that saw three Real Madrid players shown red cards. Fran Garcia was dismissed midway through the second half following a second bookable offence, before substitute Endrick was shown a red card during the chaotic closing stages. Alonso’s side were reduced to nine men when left-back Alvaro Carreras was sent off for unsportsmanlike conduct.
Alejandro Quintero Related
Fears For Referee Alejandro Quintero After Sending Off Three Real Madrid Players vs Celta Vigo
Alejandro Quintero Gonzalez issued yellow cards and three red cards to Real Madrid players on Sunday.
Sunday’s result leaves Real Madrid four points behind fierce rivals Barcelona in the league table after 16 matches. There’s already talk that Alonso will be sacked if Real Madrid lose to Manchester City on Wednesday - even though the 15-time European champions currently occupy fifth place in the Champions League table, having picked up 12 points from their opening five games.
Spanish outlet El Mundo are reporting that the relationship between Alonso and the Real Madrid dressing room is already ‘irreparable’. Real Madrid are reportedly assessing their options and two managers top their list of potential replacements.
Zinedine Zidane
Zinedine Zidane
Zinedine Zidane
Club legend Zinedine Zidane has been out of work since leaving Real Madrid for a second time in 2021. The 53-year-old, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers in history, has been linked with numerous high-profile jobs over the past four years but would only return to management if the right opportunity emerges.
A return to the Bernabeu may appeal to Zidane, who enjoyed extraordinary success during his previous spells as Real Madrid head coach. Winning the Champions League in three consecutive seasons is a feat that will be extremely difficult for any manager to replicate.
Jurgen Klopp
Jurgen Klopp gives a thumb up in the stands at Anfield
The other ‘favourite’ to become the new Real Madrid boss is former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who is currently employed as Red Bull Group’s Head of Global Soccer.
One of the most revered coaches of his generation, the appointment of Klopp would be considered a major coup for Los Blancos if they decide to part company with Alonso. However, Klopp has previously made it clear that he has little desire to return to the dugout. That may change, though, if Real Madrid come calling.