Real Madrid, despite being in contention for both the Champions League title and the La Liga crown, is openly describing this campaign as a transitional season. This stems from the turbulence that shook the club at the start of 2026.
After a loss to FC Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup, Xabi Alonso was relieved of his duties. Shortly after the announcement of his dismissal, it was revealed that Alvaro Arbeloa would step in as his replacement.
Meanwhile, Florentino Perez, the club’s president, is drafting plans for the next season. Another managerial change is reportedly under consideration, with several potential candidates vying for the role. Names such as Jurgen Klopp, Jose Mourinho, and Unai Emery have all been frequently mentioned as frontrunners.
According to reports from Defensa Central, the shortlist of managerial candidates for Real Madrid has also included Julian Nagelsmann. Currently, Nagelsmann is managing the German national team, preparing them for the upcoming World Cup.
However, it is possible that after the tournament, he might decide to embark on a new challenge. Interestingly, this is not the first occasion Perez has tried to lure the 38-year-old to the Santiago Bernabeu. Back in 2018, the Real Madrid president also regarded him as a prime contender for the manager’s position.
The decision regarding the managerial position has not yet been finalized, for understandable reasons. Alvaro Arbeloa has been granted time until the end of the season to achieve the objectives set before him.
It can be speculated that these goals include securing the La Liga title and delivering a strong performance in the Champions League.