Real Madrid icon backs former midfielder to succeed Ancelotti – ‘Give him a chance’ | OneFootball

Former Real Madrid midfielder Guti has thrown his support behind Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso as a prime candidate to take over at Real Madrid.

The discussion surrounding the club’s next manager has been one of the most talked-about topics in football, even though Carlo Ancelotti, who is wanted by Brazil, has a contract running until 2026.

However, Alonso’s name continues to be linked with a potential return to the Santiago Bernabéu as early as next season.

Endorsing Alonso

Guti has made it clear that he believes Alonso is the right choice to lead Real Madrid in the future.

He highlighted the remarkable job the former Los Blancos midfielder has done at Bayer Leverkusen, where he has transformed the team into a competitive force in German football.

“Is Xabi Alonso an alternative to Ancelotti? He is, he is. Without a doubt. I think what he did last year in Germany is something, at least, to give him a chance to do the same at Real Madrid,” he told El Chiringuito TV.

Guti has backed Xabi Alonso for the Real Madrid job. (Photo by Oliver Hardt/Getty Images)

Taking over a club that had not won a Bundesliga title before, Alonso’s impact has been undeniable, making him a strong candidate for one of the biggest managerial roles in world football.

“We’re talking about a Leverkusen side that hasn’t won anything for years, has never won the Bundesliga, you know what that’s like, to get there and do that,” he argued.

Setting the standards

The former Real Madrid playmaker also suggested that if Alonso were not in the picture, Ancelotti might have had a stronger case to stay on, even if the Merengues were to end the season without silverware.

“If Xabi Alonso wasn’t behind and the club wasn’t so interested in him coming, it could be that Ancelotti, if he doesn’t win anything this year, would have stayed next year.”

However, with Alonso’s growing reputation and enthusiasm for the role, the club appears to be seriously considering him for the future. “His [Alonso’s] hopes are great,” added Guti.

Guti has made a case that the opportunity should be given to Alonso, considering the incredible job he has done in Germany.

His tactical awareness, ability to develop players, and familiarity with Real Madrid’s culture make him an attractive option for the club’s hierarchy.