Alvaro Arbeloa is reportedly not expected to continue as Real Madrid manager beyond the current season, and much of the focus over the past month has been on potential replacements. While several candidates have been discussed, one name has been more frequently linked to the position than others.
That individual is Jose Mourinho, currently with Benfica, who has a release clause in the final year of his contract in Portugal. It has been suggested that Mourinho is the preferred candidate for President Florentino Perez, potentially putting him in pole position. So far, Mourinho has remained silent on the matter, stating he has not yet been contacted by anyone from Real Madrid.
Unai Emery is ‘High’ on Real Madrid’s Managerial Shortlist
Earlier this year, reports indicated that Aston Villa manager Unai Emery was being considered after Xabi Alonso’s dismissal. TalkSPORT reports that Emery remains a prominent name on Real Madrid’s managerial shortlist. While it’s noted he is under contract until 2029, the prospect of managing at the Santiago Bernabeu is said to be appealing to him.
Alternative Candidates for the Real Madrid Role
Emery is among several coaches who have been linked with Real Madrid, though with less certainty than Mourinho. France manager Didier Deschamps is set to depart his national team after the 2026 World Cup, as will USMNT manager Mauricio Pochettino, who has been considered an option in the past. Additionally, AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri has also been mentioned, having interviewed for the position in 2022.
Assessing Emery’s Potential
Unai Emery possesses a proven managerial track record with significant successes, particularly in European competitions, which is a factor that carries considerable weight at the Bernabeu. He is also a fluent Spanish speaker and is familiar with La Liga. On the downside, his less successful tenures in the past decade have been at Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain, leading to speculation that he may have struggled to connect with star players, a crucial element at Real Madrid.