- Real Madrid have started sounding out possible coaches for next season
- President Florentino Pérez wants a long-term manager despite Arbeloa’s recent appointment
- The early Copa del Rey exit has increased pressure at the club
- Big-name coaches are already being discussed behind the scenes
Real Madrid have already begun exploring coaching options for next season, just days after Álvaro Arbeloa stepped in as interim boss. Reports from Spain indicate that club president Florentino Pérez is planning and does not want to wait until the end of the campaign to prepare for a permanent change.
This move comes shortly after Xabi Alonso left the club by mutual agreement, forcing Madrid to turn to Arbeloa on short notice.
Arbeloa officially took charge on January 13, 2026, and his first test came almost immediately. Madrid suffered a shock 3-2 loss to Albacete in the Copa del Rey round of 16, crashing out of the competition earlier than expected.
The defeat damaged team morale and raised fresh doubts about the club’s short-term plan, prompting senior figures to think about stability beyond the current season.
Sources close to the club say early contact has already been made with several experienced coaches. One of the standout names is Jürgen Klopp, who stepped away from Liverpool last season and has remained out of football since.
Although Klopp has spoken about taking time off, Madrid views him as a coach who could inject intensity, identity, and leadership into the squad.
Another coach attracting interest is Massimiliano Allegri, who has been without a job since leaving Juventus. His experience handling big squads and winning major titles makes him a strong candidate, with initial talks reportedly held with his camp.
Former Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has also re-entered discussions. While his last spell ended in 2025 on a difficult note, some within the club still value his calm approach and success record. Simone Inzaghi and Thomas Tuchel are also being monitored.
Madrid currently sits second in La Liga, trailing Barcelona by seven points. They remain alive in the Champions League, having reached the round of 16, but the early cup exit has cast a shadow over their campaign.
With major fixtures ahead in both domestic and European competitions, Pérez wants clarity on the club’s direction.
Despite the speculation, Arbeloa remains in charge and has accepted responsibility for the Copa loss. He praised the players’ effort and urged the squad to shift focus to uthe pcoming league and European matches.
A former Madrid defender with over 200 appearances, Arbeloa was promoted from the reserve team due to his deep understanding of the club. Many see him as a safe temporary choice rather than a long-term solution.
Madrid boasts a strong squad featuring Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé, and Rodrygo, supported by a solid defence led by Antonio Rüdiger and Éder Militão. However, injuries and inconsistent form have disrupted momentum this season.
Club insiders believe a new coach could bring balance and fresh thinking.
Supporters are split over the early search for a new manager. Some see it as smart planning, while others feel Arbeloa deserves more time. Online reactions surged after the Copa exit, reflecting mixed emotions among the fan base.
Madrid face Levante next in La Liga and have a demanding Champions League tie in February. No appointment is expected before the summer, but groundwork is clearly underway.
For now, Arbeloa leads the team. No contracts have been offered, and talks remain informal. Still, the message is clear: at the Bernabéu, planning never stops, and results always shape the future.
