Real Madrid pick Carlo Ancelotti replacement but yet to decide when the change will take place - Reports

According to Relevo (via Madrid Universal), Real Madrid have identified Xabi Alonso as Carlo Ancelotti's potential long-term replacement. However, the report also claims that it remains uncertain when Alonso will replace the Italian at the Bernabéu.

Ancelotti’s credibility has come under intense scrutiny in recent months due to Madrid's performance, particularly in the UEFA Champions League. In the 2024-25 Champions League, Madrid are ranked 20th in the standings, having registered only nine points from six games.

Earlier this season, several pundits criticized Ancelotti for failing to use Kylian Mbappe's attacking proficiency to enhance Madrid's attack.

However, Madrid seems to be doing well in the LaLiga under Ancelotti's stewardship. Los Blancos have accumulated 43 points from 19 league games this season.

As Ancelotti's potential replacement, Alonso is an intuitive manager, with efficient managerial acumen. Under Alonso's stewardship last season, Bayer Leverkusen won their first Bundesliga title, among other trophies.

In the ongoing 2024-25 campaign, Leverkusen are ranked second in the Bundesliga, having registered 32 points from 15 games. In the Champions League, they are ranked fourth, accumulating 13 points from six games. Thus, given his achievements, Alonso could be a decent replacement for Ancelotti.

The Italian is contracted at Real Madrid until June 2026. Meanwhile, Alonso is also contracted at Leverkusen until June 2026. This implies that a managerial change might be witnessed at the Bernabéu.

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How has Real Madrid's left-winger Vinicius Junior performed this season?

Valencia CF v Real Madrid CF - La Liga EA Sports - Source: Getty

The Brazilian has proven to be an intelligent winger and his attacking proficiency has been key for Madrid in attack this season. In 21 appearances across all competitions, Vinicius has scored 13 goals and registered nine assists.

Having scored five goals in as many appearances, Vinicius is Real Madrid's top-scorer in the Champions League this season. He has also scored the second-highest number of goals for Madrid in the La Liga this season (eight).

As per Diario AS, Vinicius could be suspended for four La Liga games for his behavior in Madrid's 2-1 win over Valencia on (January 3). However, he remains a key player for Los Blancos in attack.