Carlo Ancelotti Opens Up on Possibility of Losing His Real Madrid Job to Xabi Alonso

• Carlo Ancelotti has reacted to reports linking Xabi Alonso to the Real Madrid managerial role
• Alonso is presently the manager of Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen and has enjoyed an impressive start to the 2023/24 season
• The Spaniard had a five-year stint at Madrid, amassing 236 appearances and contributing six goals and 31 assists

Carlo Ancelotti has now addressed the rumours linking Xabi Alonso to the Real Madrid managerial position.

The respected Italian manager has been frequently associated with a departure from the Los Blancos role, with reports suggesting he might assume the role of head coach for the Brazilian national team.

However, Ancelotti's current position has come into focus following his team's disappointing loss in the Madrid derby against Atletico at the Wanda Metropolitano last Sunday.

According to SB Nation, one of the potential contenders to succeed the 64-year-old is Xabi Alonso, the former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder.

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Alonso, who has shown promise in his coaching career at Bayer Leverkusen, is the leading candidate for the Santiago Bernabeu's top seat.

Reacting to reports linking the Leverkusen manager to his role, Ancelotti said, as quoted by Fabrizio Romano: “I have coached Xabi. He’s doing a great job at Bayer.”

“He understands the game well. That’s why he’s a very good coach.”

Carlo also mentioned other club legends, in addition to Alonso, as his preferred candidates for the role.

"I wish Xabi Alonso, Raul, and Alvaro Arbeloa to become Real Madrid's manager one day. I love all of them.”

Xabi Alonso to replace Ancelotti?

Amidst the prevailing uncertainty surrounding Ancelotti's recent decisions, a Spanish journalist has disclosed the potential successor to the former Milan manager in the Spanish capital.

Spanish journalist Matias Prats recently discussed Ancelotti on Radio Marca. According to the 72-year-old Prats, Real Madrid have selected Xabi Alonso as Los Blancos boss next year.

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Alonso's Bayer Leverkusen currently share the top spot in the Bundesliga standings after seven matches, having won six games and drawn one while scoring an impressive total of 29 goals.

Ancelotti takes blame after derby defeat

Sports Brief also reported on Ancelotti taking full responsibility for Madrid's performance and outcome, acknowledging that Atletico broke the Spanish giants' perfect La Liga record this season.

Critics have criticized the seasoned Italian manager for his choice of tactics against Atletico, as he decided to bench Joselu and fielded five midfielders, a decision that did not go well for Los Blancos in the intense match.