Real Madrid reportedly eye replacement for Carlo Ancelotti after Barcelona thrashing

Real Madrid have initiated plans to replace manager Carlo Ancelotti after being left “furious” by their humiliating 4-0 defeat to arch-rivals Barcelona, with Xabi Alonso emerging as a top candidate for the position.

Barcelona thumped Madrid at the Bernabeu with goals from Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and a brace from Robert Lewandowski.

Ancelotti appeared helpless on the sidelines as his team was outplayed, raising questions about his future.

According to Spanish outlet Sport, the Madrid hierarchy expressed “disappointment” over the season’s trajectory, despite the high-profile addition of Kylian Mbappe.

The report suggests that Real Madrid’s leadership believes Ancelotti’s tenure “may have run its course,” despite last season’s La Liga and Champions League triumphs.

President Florentino Perez is reportedly taking steps to bring Alonso to the Bernabeu for the next campaign.

Although Ancelotti’s contract was extended until 2026, concerns over his age and suitability have persisted, with Perez allegedly “very angry” about Madrid’s current state.

Alonso, who made 236 appearances for Madrid from 2009 to 2014, has gained recognition as a manager, notably guiding Bayer Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga season and a league title.

While he signed a new contract with Leverkusen in the summer, a reported clause allows him to leave for another club in June, potentially easing Madrid’s pursuit.

After the loss, Carlo Ancelotti defended his team’s performance, asserting that the scoreline did not accurately reflect their effort and that he was satisfied with his players’ commitment.

“It doesn’t reflect what happened on the pitch,” he said after the. game.

“We couldn’t get ahead and they took the lead.

“The game, until the first goal, was very even and we had more chances.

“The formation was 4-4-2 and I think we did well in the first half.

“I do not regret my gameplan.

“I have been in football for 48 years, so I’m not wrong when I tell you that the first half was good.

“It’s different from the loss vs Lille.

“We were very bad that day.

“We competed today.”

Barcelona extended their lead at the top of La Liga to six points over Madrid with their recent win.

However, Los Blancos will aim to bounce back as they prepare for an away clash with bottom-of-the-table Valencia next week

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