Real Madrid is currently going through one of its most tense moments this season following its painful exit from the Champions League, which has had a profound psychological impact on both the players and the coaching staff. Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti, in his recent press conference, avoided discussing the future, emphasizing that his focus is solely on the remaining La Liga matches.
Despite this “typical” stance in such circumstances, behind the scenes, major discussions are taking place within the royal family about the next stage. Xabi Alonso’s name is emerging as a strong candidate to take over as coach of Real Madrid starting in the 2025-26 season. The young coach, who led Bayer Leverkusen to an exceptional season both domestically and in Europe, enjoys the confidence of Florentino Pérez, and discussions have already begun between the two parties.
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One of the key topics in these discussions has been the situation of young Turkish player Arda Güler, who has not received sufficient playing time this season. Xabi Alonso, who demonstrated an exceptional ability to develop young talent at Leverkusen, believes that Güler has significant untapped potential at Real Madrid and that he will play a key role in the team’s future under his leadership.
This is good news for Güler, who recently expressed his strong desire to succeed at the club. In statements to Marca, the young player said:
“I want to play in every game and help my team win every title. Real Madrid has given me a clear plan, and I fully believe in it. I have bought a house in Madrid, I work hard every day, and I am confident that I will succeed here.”
While Ancelotti is striving to close the season on the best possible note, it seems that Real Madrid’s management has already begun planning for the near future. Whether it’s supporting young talent or rebuilding the team’s technical structure, Xabi Alonso seems to be the most convincing candidate for the role, especially given his experience as a former player at the club and his leadership qualities that have gradually matured on the coaching bench.
Real Madrid stands at a crucial crossroads: trying to salvage what remains of the season while preparing the ground for a new era led by a younger generation and a different coaching project. In this context, Arda Güler may become one of the key symbols of the next phase.
