Real Madrid line up replacement for Carlo Ancelotti as humbling Supercopa defeat to Barcelona throws pressure back on Italian tactician

Los Blancos have had a difficult campaign in the first half of the 2024/25 season as they find themselves second in La Liga and 20 in the Champions League. They did win two trophies - the UEFA Super Cup and the Intercontinental Cup - however, their latest crushing 5-2 defeat at the hands of rivals Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final, has put a question mark on Ancelotti's future at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu.

Per Relevo, club president Florentino Perez and other officials are unhappy with the Italian coach's team selection and tactics. His constant backing of Aurelien Tchouameni, despite the Frenchman's poor form, has annoyed the club bosses. They are also unhappy with Ancelotti's decision of not utilising academy graduate Raul Asencio more often.

Former Real midfielder Xabi Alonso, who helped Bayer Leverkusen win the historic Bundesliga title last season, has been strongly linked with a move to the Spanish capital and if Ancelotti does not win one of La Liga or the Champions League title this season, the Spaniard will replace him at the helm.

The reigning La Liga champions will be back in action on Thursday as they host Celta Vigo in a Copa del Rey round of 16 fixture.