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Real Madrid have reportedly shortlisted Santiago Solari and Alvaro Arbeloa as potential interim managers should Xabi Alonso be dismissed from his role, with the club preparing contingency plans following their recent 2-0 defeat to Celta Vigo and ahead of their crucial Champions League fixture against Manchester City.
Real Madrid Identify Solari and Arbeloa as Potential Interim Replacements for Alonso
Alonso’s position at Real Madrid has come under scrutiny following the disappointing loss to Celta Vigo, with another defeat against Manchester City in their upcoming Champions League encounter potentially sealing his fate as manager. The club’s hierarchy are understood to be considering their options should results fail to improve in the immediate future.
According to El Larguero, both Solari and Arbeloa have emerged as the leading internal candidates to take charge on a temporary basis. Santiago Solari, who currently serves as Real Madrid’s Director of Professional Football, previously held the caretaker manager position in 2018 and possesses the coaching experience necessary to guide the team through a transitional period until the end of the season.
Alvaro Arbeloa represents the alternative option, with the former Spain international currently managing Real Madrid Castilla and earning recognition for his work developing academy talents. The report suggests Arbeloa has built a strong reputation within the club’s ranks and could potentially offer a longer-term solution beyond an interim appointment if he proves successful in the role.
While Solari is viewed primarily as a stopgap measure, Arbeloa’s candidacy carries greater promise for the future, with the possibility of transitioning from temporary to permanent manager should he demonstrate his capabilities. Both candidates possess intimate knowledge of Real Madrid’s structure and culture, having served the club in various capacities throughout their careers.
The club will continue monitoring the situation closely as they prepare for the Champions League clash with Manchester City, with Alonso’s immediate future likely dependent on the team’s performance in this crucial European fixture. Real Madrid remain in wait-and-watch mode regarding any potential managerial changes as the pressure mounts on the current coaching setup.
