Zidane and Klopp among names in frame for Real Madrid post

April 19, 2026 Oliver Obel

Real Madrid are once again heading toward a summer of major decisions, with mounting signs that another managerial change is on the horizon after a disappointing campaign.

The club’s Champions League exit to Bayern Munich on Wednesday effectively ended their hopes of salvaging silverware this season. Combined with a nine-point gap behind Barcelona in La Liga and an early Copa del Rey elimination, the pressure has intensified on current manager Alvaro Arbeloa.

According to The Athletic, the expectation inside the club is that Arbeloa will depart at the end of the season. While he insisted after the defeat in Munich that he was calm about his future and that any decision rests with the club, the broader mood suggests his time in charge is nearing its conclusion.

A Cycle of Instability

Madrid’s struggles this season reflect a wider lack of continuity since Carlo Ancelotti left to take over the Brazil national team. His departure marked the end of a highly successful era, and the club has yet to find a stable successor.

Xabi Alonso’s brief spell lasted just seven months before he was dismissed, and Arbeloa—promoted from the club’s B team—has been unable to halt the slide. The possibility of back-to-back trophyless seasons is widely viewed as unacceptable by the club’s standards.

No Clear Successor Yet

The Athletic reports that Real Madrid are considering several candidates, though no appointment appears imminent.

Jurgen Klopp is among the names admired internally. However, both he and his representatives have publicly stated that he has had no contact with Madrid and is not currently planning a return to coaching, having taken on a leadership role within Red Bull’s football structure.

Mauricio Pochettino, by contrast, appears a more attainable option. The Argentine has not ruled out a return to club management and is under contract with the United States national team through the upcoming World Cup. His recent presence in Madrid for a Champions League fixture has only added to the speculation.

Didier Deschamps is another experienced figure under consideration. The long-serving France manager, in charge since 2012, brings a track record of success in major tournaments and experience managing high-profile players—qualities that could appeal to Madrid’s hierarchy. His future beyond the World Cup, however, remains uncertain.

Zinedine Zidane’s name inevitably resurfaces whenever the role becomes available. He remains highly regarded by club president Florentino Perez, but people close to Zidane have indicated that his priority is to eventually succeed Deschamps as France manager. A return to Madrid cannot be ruled out, though it is not currently seen as the most likely outcome.

Immediate Expectations

Whoever takes charge will inherit one of the most demanding jobs in football. At Real Madrid, patience is limited and success is expected instantly.

Failing to win a major trophy for two consecutive seasons would mark a significant drop from the club’s usual standards. The next manager will be tasked not only with restoring results, but also with re-establishing a sense of direction after a period of upheaval.

Sources: The Athletic