Real Madrid's elimination from the Champions League at the hands of Bayern Munich is expected to trigger a significant overhaul at the club, potentially starting with the position of head coach Alvaro Arbeloa. The 43-year-old, who was appointed in January, may face dismissal despite possibly staying on until the end of the season.
Madrid's early exit from the Copa del Rey and their nine-point deficit in La Liga, with defending champions Barcelona leading the way, have increased the pressure on Arbeloa. The club's history of not tolerating failure, especially under president Florentino Perez, suggests that Arbeloa's tenure may be coming to an end. The general consensus around the club is that Arbeloa will be let go, but not immediately, as it would make little sense to bring in a new manager at this point in the season. Arbeloa has improved the team's atmosphere, and his loyalty to the club may earn him a different role if he chooses to stay.
Potential replacements for Arbeloa include Jurgen Klopp, Zinedine Zidane, and Mauricio Pochettino, although none of these options are confirmed. The club's sporting structure may also undergo changes, with the possibility of appointing a director of football being considered. The current system, with general director Jose Angel Sanchez, chief scout Juni Calafat, and Perez responsible for recruitment, may be revamped.
Former Madrid player and manager Santiago Solari holds the title of director of football but has limited influence. Sources close to the club suggest that a new specialist may be brought in to oversee the sporting structure. However, this has been denied by some within the club.
The possibility of internal power struggles and changes at various levels, including the board, coaching staff, medical team, and players, cannot be ruled out. A training ground source has spoken of 'confusion among the staff' due to rumors of potential changes. The club has been dealing with a medical crisis since 2023, with a high number of injuries affecting performances.
Disagreements between coaching staff and physical trainer Antonio Pintus, who has the trust of Perez, were common during Ancelotti's final season. The reinstatement of Croatian doctor Niko Mihic as head of medical services and the misdiagnosis of Mbappe's knee injury have added to the club's medical woes. Proposals for a new ownership structure, which would allow outside investment, have not made significant progress since Perez announced the consideration of such a move in November.