Kylian Mbappe, the talismanic forward of Real Madrid, has reportedly set his sights on Zinedine Zidane as the long-term managerial successor at Santiago Bernabéu. Following Real Madrid’s decision to part ways with Xabi Alonso after a narrow 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup, murmurs of discontent have emerged from within the club’s ranks. With the Madridistas also trailing their Catalan rivals by four points in La Liga, the need for stability has become apparent.
Alonso’s departure paved the way for Alvaro Arbeloa’s interim appointment, yet speculation is rife over a potential summer reshuffle. Jurgen Klopp, the celebrated former Liverpool manager, has been touted as a candidate, with Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg revealing Klopp’s openness to considering the role, despite his current commitments with Red Bull.
Reports, however, suggest that Mbappe is not in favour of Klopp or Arbeloa taking the permanent helm. The French international had forged a strong bond with Alonso and has expressed reservations about Arbeloa’s ability to deliver a significant upturn in the squad’s fortunes. Instead, Mbappe is advocating for Zidane, highlighting the legendary manager’s track record and the assurance of success he embodies.
During a press conference, Arbeloa reflected on his close relationship with Alonso and the spirit within the team, emphasising the club’s historic reliance on effort, sacrifice, and consistency—a nod to the values that have underpinned Real Madrid’s storied successes.
Meanwhile, Arsenal reportedly hold an interest in a Real Madrid star post-Alonso, fuelling transfer market speculations, as Tottenham step up talks with Alonso, who is eyeing a return to the Premier League.
In the ever-evolving chessboard of football management, all eyes remain on who will eventually claim the managerial seat at the iconic Spanish club.