Real Madrid is currently facing a challenging period on the pitch, with recent performances raising concerns. Since their clash against Valencia in early November, the team has struggled to maintain form, losing their lead in La Liga after previously holding a five-point advantage over FC Barcelona following the ClĂĄsico. The atmosphere within the squad has become increasingly tense, with doubts emerging about Xabi Alonso‘s methods. According to Spanish journalist Iñaki Angulo, Alonso’s position is precarious, with speculation that he may not even be in charge for the first match of 2026 against Real Betis on January 4.
Internal support for Alonso has dwindled significantly; sources indicate that he is overwhelmed by the squad and disconnected from the realities of managing at Real Madrid. The club appears to have lost faith in his ability to turn things around, considering his tenure effectively over unless a suitable replacement can be found quickly. Speculation is rife that former players Zinedine Zidane and Ălvaro Arbeloa are top contenders to succeed him.
Zidane: The Preferred Choice
In this turbulent context, Zidane remains Real Madrid’s primary target should they decide to part ways with Alonso. The legendary coach is widely expected to take over the French national team after the 2026 World Cup. However, Angulo reports that Real Madrid believes they can persuade Zidane to return before then, possibly even sooner if Alonso’s situation continues to deteriorate. Two key factors bolster this belief: Zidane’s deep-rooted affection for the club and his family’s enjoyment of life in Madrid.
Club’s Commitment to Convince Zidane
Florentino Pérez and the club hierarchy are reportedly willing to go to great lengths to entice Zidane back into management at Santiago Bernabéu. This could include offering him a salary higher than his last contract and promising significant reinforcements in the transfer market, even if it means parting ways with players who do not fit his vision. Zidane is viewed as uniquely qualified to manage the current squad and instill much-needed discipline.
The internal sentiment suggests a palpable desperation; without Zidane’s return, any other managerial appointment would likely be seen as a stopgap measure. Should Zidane accept an offer quickly, Alonso could be dismissed almost immediately. Nonetheless, Angulo expresses skepticism about whether Zidane could replicate his past success given the current squad dynamicsâspecifically, the younger roster lacking strong leadership compared to when he first took charge in 2016.
The club is actively working to facilitate Zidane’s release from his pre-contract with the French Football Federation, signaling their commitment to rectifying past mistakes in squad management. As fans await developments, one question looms large: Can Real Madrid regain its former glory under new leadership?
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