Real Madrid News
Real Madrid legend emerges as Florentino Perez’s top choice to replace Xabi Alonso
Xabi Alonso’s time at Real Madrid could soon come to an end, as the Spanish tactician finds himself in a very difficult position.
Following a run of two wins in as many as eight games across all competitions, the 44-year-old tactician has come under intense pressure.
Matters have not been helped by a never-ending injury list as well as constant talks of a dressing room rift.
As has already been reported, failure to win against Deportivo Alaves on Sunday could prove to be the last straw for Alonso at Real Madrid.
Florentino Perez sees Zidane as top choice
Now, according to Sky Sport Germany, Real Madrid have already begun scouring the managerial market to replace Alonso if they are indeed forced to part ways with Alonso.
As per the report, former Real Madrid midfielder, club legend, and ex-manager Zinedine Zidane is the top choice of president Florentino Perez to take over from Alonso.
The icon, who masterminded the team to a hat-trick of UEFA Champions League triumphs in his first stint, has not taken up a job since bringing an end to his second spell as Real Madrid boss in 2021.
Zidane has been tipped to take over as the next manager of the French national team from Didier Deschamps after the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
But, it appears like Perez is keen on bringing the 53-year-old French manager back to the Bernabeu for a third spell as manager.
Meanwhile, the Real Madrid hierarchy also have ex-Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp as a possible candidate on their shortlist, while current Castilla head coach Alvaro Arbeloa is also being considered.
Alonso has another chance to turn things around with a win this weekend against Alaves, but if things do not go his way, Real Madrid could decide to move on from him just seven months into his tenure.
Real Madrid News
Mourinho considering starting 23-year-old Real Madrid ace against Villarreal – report
After impressing during the international break, Eduardo Camavinga has a major opportunity to establish himself in Real Madrid’s midfield rotation.
Indeed, according to Defensa Central, Jose Mourinho is considering starting the Frenchman against Villarreal, with injuries and doubts over several players limiting his options.
Real Madrid cannot afford to drop points against Villarreal if they want to remain in the title race. However, Mourinho has issues to deal with in the squad, which could lead him to turn to Camavinga for a crucial role.
Camavinga could replace Tchouameni in midfield
The 23-year-old star could line up as the defensive midfielder in the double pivot, with Bernardo Silva or Arda Guler alongside him, and will be tasked with providing balance in midfield.
Real Madrid face Villarreal with several problems in central defence. Ibrahima Konate is expected to be a late call, leading Mourinho to consider moving Aurelien Tchouameni into defence alongside Antonio Rudiger.
Meanwhile, Federico Valverde could also struggle to be ready after the ankle injury he sustained in the derby before the international break.
The Uruguayan has continued to work individually away from the group and might return to group training tomorrow. Even then, his readiness to start remains in question.
That would leave a place open in midfield, with Camavinga in line to fill in.
Camavinga impressed during the international break
Camavinga has started only one match this season, the defeat against Real Betis.
Despite his limited opportunities, Mourinho is keen to bring the Frenchman back into the fold after he impressed for France during the international break.
Zinedine Zidane called the Real Madrid star up for his first France squad, and the midfielder performed well during the break.
That has given Mourinho and Real Madrid reason to be optimistic about using him against Villarreal, with the hope that he can move closer to the level he showed after first arriving at the club.
Therefore, the Villarreal match could represent an important test for Camavinga and a chance for the Frenchman to show that he can provide the balance Real Madrid need in midfield.
