Real Madrid prepares for a managerial change: Xabi Alonso set to replace Ancelotti

The Ancelotti era is closing

Carlo Ancelotti won a total of 15 trophies and two Champions League titles during his second spell at Real Madrid. However, in recent years, a clear misalignment has emerged between his perspective and the club's long-term plans. According to BBC Sport, internal discomfort has been caused by the lack of sufficient playing time for young players and the absence of tactical flexibility in some important matches.

Ancelotti is expected to take charge of the Brazil national team at the end of the season. Although no official announcement has been made, both the Madrid and Brazil camps are preparing for the change.

Alonso’s football mind: structured system, clear roles

Xabi Alonso is known as a coach who values structure and order on the pitch. The 3-4-2-1 system he implemented at Leverkusen was based more on game control and spatial organization than speed. His team managed to hold their shape tightly in narrow areas, maintaining their structure during transitions. The undefeated championship in 2023–24 was a result of this approach.

In Alonso’s style, it’s not about players improvising solutions, but rather each position functioning within a clear plan. This approach sets him apart from Ancelotti’s freedom-based game model. It is clear that with Alonso, Real Madrid is moving from short-term solutions to building a long-term football identity.

New squad balance: stars defined, system taking shape

When Xabi Alonso begins his role at Real Madrid, he will be working with a squad that has a well-established core. In the attacking line, players like Vinícius Jr., Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé, and Endrick are no longer just rising stars; they are system carriers. These players will be at the center of Alonso’s tactical vision on the field.

In midfield, players like Camavinga and Tchouaméni offer calm control and positional discipline. Valverde stands out as a versatile complement who can respond to various needs. Based on the structure Alonso used at Leverkusen, it's likely that Madrid will shift into a 3-2-5 shape in possession. While Tchouaméni remains central, Mbappé and Bellingham may move freely in the half-spaces. Mendy or a potential new left-back could support from the back, while on the right flank, a transfer such as Trent Alexander-Arnold could provide attacking width.

Alonso's main goal will be to build a system on top of individual talent. This will only be possible if every player knows their role and responsibilities are clearly defined.

New leadership group and dressing room dynamics

Replacing a figure like Ancelotti, who built emotional bonds and earned trust, won't be easy. As Modrić and Kroos approach their farewells, leadership is expected to shift to players like Vinícius, Rüdiger, and Bellingham. Alonso will need to establish his authority in line with this structure and with on-pitch clarity.

Is Davide Ancelotti stepping out on his own?

According to BBC Sport, Davide Ancelotti is now seriously considering the idea of becoming a head coach. Having served as an assistant for years at PSG, Bayern, Napoli, and Madrid, he is now reportedly on the radar of some clubs in the Bundesliga and Ligue 1. If his father departs, Davide is unlikely to remain at the club under Alonso’s management.

El Clásico: an emotional farewell or a final triumph?

The upcoming El Clásico may be not just decisive in the league race, but also the final major scene of the Ancelotti era. A loss to Barcelona could mathematically end Madrid’s title hopes. But a win could offer Ancelotti one last standing ovation as a farewell.