Real Madrid’s Next Manager Confirmed: One Scenario Where Ancelotti Steps Down and Alonso Takes Over

Carlo Ancelotti, the most successful manager in Real Madrid’s illustrious history with 15 trophies to his name, finds himself at a familiar crossroads. Despite his unprecedented success, the pressure of managing Los Blancos is relentless. At Real Madrid, failing to secure a major trophy often signals the end of a manager’s tenure. According to Spanish outlet Relevo, if Ancelotti does not deliver either the La Liga or UEFA Champions League title this season, Xabi Alonso is poised to take the reins this summer.

The Inevitable Succession

Within the walls of Real Madrid, from the youth academy to the senior team, there is a growing consensus: Xabi Alonso is destined to become the club’s next manager. The only question is when, not if. Whether the transition occurs this summer or in 2026, when Ancelotti’s contract expires, remains to be seen.

At 43, Alonso has already showcased his managerial prowess. During the 2023-24 season, he led Bayer Leverkusen to unprecedented success, capturing their first-ever Bundesliga title, reaching the Europa League final, and adding both the DFB-Pokal and DFL-Supercup to the trophy cabinet. In the current 2024-25 campaign, Leverkusen sits second in the Bundesliga and has all but secured a spot in the UEFA Champions League knockout stages with 13 points from six group matches.

Alonso’s managerial philosophy aligns seamlessly with Real Madrid’s ethos. He emphasizes hard work, tactical discipline, and the integration of young talent—qualities that resonate deeply with the club’s identity. His elegant demeanor and impeccable image have also endeared him to Madridistas, who see him as a natural successor to Ancelotti.

Ancelotti’s Resilience Amidst Challenges

This season has been a rollercoaster for Real Madrid. A humiliating 0-4 defeat in El Clásico against Barcelona and a 1-3 loss to AC Milan in the Champions League group stage fueled speculation about Ancelotti’s future. Relevo reported that the club’s management briefly considered appointing Santiago Solari as an interim manager, paving the way for Alonso’s arrival at the end of the season.

However, Ancelotti has a knack for weathering storms. Under his guidance, Real Madrid managed to rebound from their early-season struggles, temporarily quelling talk of a managerial change. Yet, the Italian tactician is far from secure. If Real Madrid fails to win either La Liga or the Champions League this season, the club is expected to make a managerial switch, with Alonso stepping into the spotlight.

Alonso’s Calm Amid the Storm

Despite the swirling rumors, Alonso remains composed. Managing Real Madrid is undoubtedly a dream for the former midfielder, who won numerous titles with the club as a player. However, Alonso is equally committed to his current role at Bayer Leverkusen, where he continues to hone his craft.

If Ancelotti retains his position by delivering a major trophy this season, the timeline for Alonso’s arrival will likely shift to 2026. By then, both Ancelotti’s contract with Real Madrid and Alonso’s deal with Leverkusen will have expired, making the transition seamless.

Commentary: A New Era Beckons

The prospect of Xabi Alonso taking charge of Real Madrid is both exciting and symbolic. As a player, Alonso epitomized intelligence, composure, and leadership—qualities that have seamlessly transitioned into his managerial career. His success at Bayer Leverkusen has solidified his reputation as one of Europe’s most promising young coaches.

For Real Madrid, Alonso represents a bridge between the club’s storied past and its ambitious future. His ability to develop young talent, coupled with his tactical acumen, makes him an ideal candidate to lead the club into a new era.

Ancelotti’s legacy at Real Madrid is already secure, but the pressure to deliver remains as intense as ever. Whether he departs this summer or in 2026, the eventual arrival of Xabi Alonso feels like destiny—a return of one of the club’s own to guide Los Blancos to further glory.