Major changes expected as Madrid scouts new managers for next season
Real Madrid are already looking for a new manager to take over this summer, with Mauricio Pochettino at the top of their list. Sources say the Spanish giants are planning a huge “structural change” after a difficult run under current coach Álvaro Arbeloa.
Arbeloa took over from Xabi Alonso in January, but many inside the club feel he was never meant to be the long-term solution. Unless he pulls off a “miracle” by winning the Champions League, he is expected to be moved to a different role within the club, possibly going back to coaching the youth team, Castilla.
Pochettino is currently the head coach of the United States national team, but his contract ends after this summer’s World Cup. Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez is a big fan of his work. A major plus for Pochettino is his history with Kylian Mbappé; the two won three trophies together at Paris Saint-Germain.
While Pochettino has also been linked with a return to Tottenham, Spurs are currently in a messy relegation battle, which might make the Madrid job much more attractive.
The manager isn’t the only one under pressure. The club’s head scout, Juni Calafat, is also facing questions. Although he famously brought in stars like Vinícius Junior and Jude Bellingham, the jury is still out on last summer’s big signings, including Trent Alexander-Arnold.
After spending over £170 million without winning a trophy last year, Madrid bosses are ready to clean house if the team finishes this season empty-handed. Other big names like Jürgen Klopp and Zinedine Zidane are also being mentioned, but Pochettino seems to be the most realistic target for now.
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