Zidane return talk grows after Real Madrid coaching change

January 14, 2026 Oliver Obel

Real Madrid confirmed on Monday that Xabi Alonso had left his role as head coach, less than 24 hours after the club’s defeat to Barcelona in the Supercopa de Espana final. The club said the decision had been taken by mutual agreement.

In a statement, Madrid praised Alonso’s professionalism and contribution, stressing his status as a club legend and adding that the Bernabeu would “always be his home.” The tone reflected respect for a former player who returned to lead the team during a demanding period.

Alonso later addressed supporters directly, describing the opportunity to coach Real Madrid as “an honor and a responsibility.” He acknowledged that performances and results had not met expectations and thanked the players, staff, and fans for their support. Despite the disappointment, he said he was leaving with pride in the work done.

Arbeloa promoted amid search for continuity

The club moved quickly to confirm Alvaro Arbeloa as Alonso’s replacement, promoting the former defender to take charge of the first team. Arbeloa, who represented Madrid during his playing career and has since worked within the club’s coaching structure, is a familiar figure at Valdebebas.

While the appointment provides immediate continuity, it has been widely viewed as a short-term solution rather than a definitive long-term answer. Madrid have often turned inward during transitional moments, even as speculation builds externally.

Familiar names enter the conversation

Unsurprisingly, the coaching change has sparked renewed debate over potential successors. Spanish and international media have linked several high-profile managers with the role, including Jurgen Klopp, who remains without a club.

Among those names, Zidane’s stands apart. Few figures are more closely associated with Madrid’s recent success, and his availability continues to fuel speculation whenever the club faces upheaval.

Zidane’s legacy and his silence

Zidane first took charge of Real Madrid in 2016, leading the club through one of the most successful periods in its history. After stepping down in 2018, he returned in 2019 before leaving again in 2021. Since then, the former France international has not accepted another managerial position.

That prolonged absence has only added to the intrigue surrounding his next move. Despite frequent links to elite jobs, Zidane has remained selective, reinforcing the perception that he is waiting for the right opportunity rather than simply a return to coaching.

Remarks that continue to resonate

In November 2025, Zidane was asked about whether he expected to return to football. According to GOAL, his response was brief but emphatic: “It will happen soon. Very soon.”

He has also been repeatedly linked with the France national team. Didier Deschamps is expected to step down after the 2026 World Cup, and Zidane has long been viewed as a natural successor. Speaking about that possibility, he said: “I’d like to be the head coach of the France team one day. I will surely return to coaching.”

Uncertainty remains at the Bernabeu

For now, Real Madrid have not signaled their longer-term plans beyond Arbeloa’s appointment. The club continues to balance immediate results with broader structural decisions, a familiar challenge in an environment where scrutiny is constant.

As Madrid search once again for stability, Zidane’s past comments — and his continued absence from the game — have taken on renewed relevance. Whether they point toward a return to the Bernabeu or elsewhere remains unanswered, but the discussion shows little sign of fading.

Sources: Real Madrid CF, GOAL