Real Madrid’s Season Slipping Away — Who Could Replace Arbeloa if the Crisis Deepens?

Things are starting to unravel for Real Madrid at the worst possible time. A 1–2 defeat to Mallorca was followed by a frustrating 1–1 draw against Girona — and suddenly, the La Liga title is slipping away faster than anyone expected. What once looked like a controlled race now feels unstable, with pressure building around Álvaro Arbeloa and his squad.

According to AS, the situation could have serious consequences. Arbeloa, who only took charge in January after the dismissal of Xabi Alonso, is expected to leave at the end of the season if Madrid fail in Europe. And right now, that scenario looks increasingly likely.

A 1–2 home defeat to Bayern Munich at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium has left Madrid on the brink of a Champions League quarter-final exit — something that would clearly fall under “failure” by the club’s standards.

If that happens, Madrid may be forced to act quickly. And as always, the list of potential successors is both intriguing and complicated.

Unai Emery — Proven Winner, But a Risk at This Level?

Unai Emery has quietly rebuilt his reputation in England with Aston Villa, guiding them back toward the Champions League.

His European pedigree is unquestionable — three consecutive Europa League titles with Sevilla still define his legacy. He also brings experience from elite dressing rooms, having managed Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal.

But Madrid is a different environment. Managing superstar egos has been a challenge even for bigger names, and Emery’s previous struggles at PSG still raise questions. Would he really be the right fit for a dressing room full of global icons?

Jürgen Klopp — Authority, Intensity… and Doubts

Jürgen Klopp remains one of the most respected figures in modern football.

His time at Liverpool turned the club into a pressing powerhouse, delivering both the Champions League (2019) and Premier League (2020). But since stepping away from coaching in 2024, Klopp has taken on a different role within the Red Bull football system.

There are two obvious issues. First, Klopp hasn’t shown clear interest in returning to management yet. Second, it’s hard to imagine players like Vinícius Júnior, Kylian Mbappé, and Jude Bellingham fully committing to the relentless pressing demands that define Klopp’s style.

Still, if Madrid want personality and authority, few names come bigger.

Enzo Maresca — Rising Star with Big-Club Experience

Enzo Maresca is one of the most talked-about young coaches in Europe.

During his time at Chelsea, he delivered silverware and handled a notoriously large and complex squad — something that would be highly relevant at Madrid. However, his sudden fallout with the club’s hierarchy in late 2025 raised eyebrows.

Maresca is also closely linked with Manchester City, especially given his previous work under Pep Guardiola.

The bigger question is stylistic. Would Madrid really embrace a Guardiola-style possession system? Or would that clash with the club’s traditional reliance on individual brilliance?

Thomas Tuchel — Tactical Flexibility, But Uncertain Timing

Thomas Tuchel is preparing for a major test with the England national team at the 2026 World Cup.

Known for his tactical adaptability, Tuchel could bring structure to a Madrid side that often relies on individual moments. His ability to switch systems and control big games makes him a strong candidate on paper.

But timing is everything. If England perform well at the World Cup, it’s hard to see Tuchel walking away from that project — even for Madrid.

Zinedine Zidane — The Dream That Won’t Go Away

When it comes to Real Madrid, one name always returns: Zinedine Zidane.

Few managers understand the club better. Across two spells, Zidane delivered 11 trophies, including multiple Champions League titles, and left without conflict both times.

However, his future appears tied to the French Football Federation. With Didier Deschamps expected to step down after the 2026 World Cup, Zidane is widely believed to be next in line.

It would take something extraordinary for him to turn that opportunity down. But if Madrid come calling, history suggests the door is never completely closed.

A Defining Few Weeks Ahead

For now, everything depends on results.

The La Liga title is drifting away, and the Champions League campaign hangs by a thread. If Madrid fall short in Europe, the club could once again find itself at a crossroads — forced to choose between stability and another high-profile reset.

And as always with Madrid, the decision won’t just shape next season.

It could define an era.

Published by Patrick Jane
13.04.2026