Florentino Perez reportedly doubts Xabi Alonso’s ability to replace Ancelotti at Real Madrid

Real Madrid have long been preparing for life after Carlo Ancelotti, with Xabi Alonso emerging as the frontrunner to take over. However, despite his impressive managerial rise at Bayer Leverkusen, reports suggest that club president Florentino Perez and other key decision-makers harbor doubts about his readiness for the job.

According to Fichajes, Alonso’s ability to thrive under the pressure of European competition is a major concern. While his tactical intelligence and leadership have helped Leverkusen secure a Bundesliga title, his performance in crucial European fixtures has not been as convincing. His side’s loss to Atalanta in the Europa League final and their elimination at the hands of Bayern Munich in the Champions League round of 16 have raised questions about whether he can handle the demands of managing Real Madrid.

Real Madrid’s hierarchy values European success above all else, and Alonso’s lack of experience at the highest level of the Champions League is seen as a potential risk. The club has a rich history of appointing managers who have either won Europe’s biggest prize or demonstrated an ability to succeed under intense scrutiny. While Alonso’s playing career saw him win the Champions League with both Liverpool and Real Madrid, the step up to managing a club of Madrid’s stature is an entirely different challenge.

Despite the doubts, Alonso remains the leading candidate to replace Ancelotti. His connection to the club, having played for Los Blancos between 2009 and 2014, makes him a sentimental and logical choice. His tactical philosophy, which emphasizes possession-based football and structured pressing, is also in line with Madrid’s evolving playing style. However, some in the club believe that his managerial résumé still needs further strengthening before he can be entrusted with one of the most demanding jobs in world football.

Ancelotti’s future is another factor complicating the situation. The Italian coach is expected to take charge of the Brazilian national team at the end of the season, but there remains a possibility that he could stay at Madrid for another year. His vast experience and ability to handle high-pressure situations make him a safe choice, especially with the team competing at the highest level in both La Liga and the Champions League.

The final decision will likely depend on how Madrid finishes this season and the alternatives available in the market. If Alonso can guide Leverkusen deep into European competition next year or secure another major domestic trophy, he could further strengthen his case. On the other hand, if Real Madrid find a more experienced candidate, Perez and his team may reconsider their stance.

Alonso’s supporters argue that he is the perfect candidate to lead Madrid into a new era. His understanding of the club’s culture, his development as a modern tactician, and his ability to work with young talent make him an exciting choice. Leverkusen’s dominance in the Bundesliga this season has showcased his ability to build a cohesive, dynamic team capable of competing at the highest level.

However, skeptics point to the fact that Real Madrid is a completely different beast. Managing a club with the highest expectations in world football is not the same as leading Leverkusen, no matter how impressive their recent rise has been. The scrutiny, the media pressure, and the constant demand for trophies require a level of experience that Alonso has yet to prove in a major European competition.

Madrid’s decision-making process will also be influenced by player opinions. Key figures in the dressing room, including veterans like Luka Modric and Toni Kroos (if they extend their stays), as well as young stars like Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior, will have a significant say in whether Alonso is the right man to lead them. If the squad expresses confidence in him, it could tip the scales in his favor.

Another name that has been mentioned in discussions is Raul, another club legend currently managing Real Madrid Castilla. While he has been groomed within the club’s system, he lacks experience at the top level, making Alonso the more viable option if Madrid opts for an internal solution.

Perez is known for being ruthless when it comes to coaching decisions. If he feels that Alonso is not the right fit, he will not hesitate to look elsewhere. Real Madrid’s priority is to maintain their dominance in European football, and any appointment must align with that objective.

Alonso’s challenge now is to prove that his managerial skills extend beyond domestic success. If he can showcase his tactical brilliance in the Champions League next season or deliver another stunning campaign with Leverkusen, he might just convince Perez and the board that he is ready for the job.

For now, Real Madrid fans remain divided. Some believe Alonso’s time will come, while others feel the club should wait until he gains more experience at an elite level. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether he is the chosen one to succeed Ancelotti or if Madrid will explore alternative options.

With the summer approaching, speculation will only intensify. Will Alonso get the call to return to the Bernabéu, or will Perez surprise the football world with another unexpected managerial appointment? Only time will tell.