Revealed: What Carlo Ancelotti must do to avoid Real Madrid sack with Xabi Alonso waiting in wings as replacement

The Italian may still have his side on course for back-to-back La Liga titles but if he wishes to keep his job he will have to avoid any slip-ups and make sure the trophy stays at Santiago Bernabeu. The Real Madrid hierarchy also believe that failure to reach at least the semi-finals of the Champions League would be enough reason to axe Ancelotti, according to Relevo. Ancelotti's future is put into doubt further by the potential availability of Bayer Leverkusen's Xabi Alonso, who has long been tipped for the job at the Bernabeu.

The report from Relevo also suggests that Alonso has a gentlemen's agreement with the Leverkusen executives that he will be allowed to depart the German champions should Madrid approach him. The Spanish coach, who spent five seasons as a player with Real, went unbeaten in the Bundesliga last season and is believed to be interested in the job should the opportunity arise.

Alonso has distanced himself from the job already, claiming he does not want to leave Germany mid-season. However, with his contract expiring in 2026, his stance could change come the end of the season. He said: "I can’t say anything, we’re in the middle of a season and all the clubs have big goals.

"Over the years, time passes, but the affection [for Madrid] endures. That relationship is unforgettable, and it is appreciated because the bond is very strong. It was a very nice stage as a player, they were very intense years. It was difficult for us to get what we wanted and it was very celebrated when we achieved it."

Ancelotti will be under pressure to deliver a positive result this week as his side look to progress to the Champions League round of 16. They have a 3-2 lead over Manchester City going into the second leg of their play-off tie, but the contest is far from over - particularly if the visitors replicate their dismantling of Newcastle in Madrid.