Real Madrid had approached incoming Man City manager after Xabi Alonso sacking | OneFootball

It has been a turbulent season for Real Madrid, both on an off the pitch. A dressing room in absolute turmoil, and a managerial situation that has been far from stable have led to a second consecutive season without a major trophy.

Changes are already underway, with Jose Mourinho now poised to take over from Alvaro Arbeloa in the coming week, once the season comes to an end.

However, it could have turned out very different for Real Madrid as they seemingly had different plans earlier in the campaign.

Real Madrid had made an approach for Enzo Maresca

Indeed, according to journalist Ben Jacobs, Real Madrid had made an approach to hire Enzo Maresca immediately after the sacking of Xabi Alonso in January.

Maresca is set to become the new Man City manager. (Photo by Luke Walker/Getty Images)

The 46-year-old was relieved of his duties at the turn of the year by Chelsea despite having led them to the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup titles last year.

Los Blancos made a move for the former Chelsea manager by getting in touch with superagent Jorge Mendes, but nothing came of it.

Real Madrid were not the only ones to approach Maresca as the likes of Tottenham Hotspur and AC Milan too explored a move for the Italian.

Nothing materialised, though, as Maresca always wanted to take over from Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, which he is now poised to do.

Indeed, the manager has agreed a three-year contract with the Premier League heavyweights and will replace his mentor at the Etihad Stadium in the summer.

Mourinho the man for Madrid

Returning to Madrid. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

While contacts with Jorge Mendes with Maresca did not bear fruit, Real Madrid have successfully negotiated with the superagent for Mourinho to return to the club.

The Portuguese tactician will leave Benfica imminently and return to the Santiago Bernabeu on a two-year contract until the summer of 2028.

An announcement could take place soon, depending on the presidential election situation.