Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Real Madrid Eyes Managerial Shake-Up After Disappointing Season

1/30/2026

35 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Real Madrid is weighing a managerial change after a disappointing season.
Alvaro Arbeloa (Real Madrid coach) replaced Xabi Alonso and oversaw a Copa del Rey exit and a Benfica defeat.
Unai Emery (manager of Aston Villa) is the leading candidate after Real Madrid contacted him.
Jurgen Klopp (with Red Bull) remains a potential option, but his current role complicates matters.
Real Madrid plans summer transfers to strengthen the squad.

History

Historical Context

In 2015, Real Madrid dismissed coach Rafael Benítez after a disappointing season, marked by a 3-2 loss to Sevilla and a 4-0 defeat to Barcelona. His successor, Zinedine Zidane, led the team to three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles from 2016 to 2018. Today, Real Madrid's search for a new coach reflects ongoing challenges in maintaining elite performance amid a competitive football landscape.

1 of 2

Story summary

Real Madrid is weighing a managerial change after a disappointing season.
Alvaro Arbeloa (Real Madrid coach) replaced Xabi Alonso and oversaw a Copa del Rey exit and a Benfica defeat.
Unai Emery (manager of Aston Villa) is the leading candidate after Real Madrid contacted him.
Jurgen Klopp (with Red Bull) remains a potential option, but his current role complicates matters.
Real Madrid plans summer transfers to strengthen the squad.

1 / 2