Real Madrid’s elimination from the UEFA Champions League has hurt Alvaro Arbeloa’s chances of staying at the helm of the first team next season, especially given how the administration made it very clear that silverware would define his future.
With the club set to go trophy-less once more, serious doubts are creeping in about the project and whether the right personnel are managing it.
Despite the defeat, Arbeloa has the backing of the players who feel comfortable and motivated under his tutelage. The decision, however, rests with the administration and they could well look to let him go at the end of the season.
Options considered
Real Madrid have been looking for potential replacements for Arbeloa in recent months to ensure they have options for the summer. In that sense, they have looked with an open mind and minimal filters.
As reported in a recent report by El Mundo, however, Real Madrid are now developing certain filters over the profile they prioritise with the biggest one being the experience of the manager.
Nagelsmann not being considered by Real Madrid. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)
Los Blancos want an experienced name to take control of the first team, likely to keep control of the dressing room and provide a definitive direction to the project.
Several young names have been considered in recent weeks including Julian Nagelsmann and Cesc Fabregas, but they have now been discarded after the newfound clarity.
Los Blancos’ sudden hesitance towards young and upcoming managers may well have to do with the sour experience with Xabi Alonso, and the poor run under Alvaro Arbeloa now. Having backed two young coaches in the past year, they now know that the right path is different.
It thus remains to be seen as to who the club have on their radar as an experienced option with the likes of Jurgen Klopp and Mauricio Pochettino being some of the names considered.
