Florentino Pérez has seen his future plans for Real Madrid frustrated. Xabi Alonso, who was chosen by the club president to be Carlo Ancelotti's successor, has taken an unexpected path.
The Spanish coach, currently shining at Bayer Leverkusen, has sparked interest in the Merengues' main enemy in recent years.
Ancelotti's ideal Substitute Chosen by Florentino Pérez
Xabi Alonso's name has been strongly linked with the management of Real Madrid. Xabi Alonso's success at Bayer Leverkusen has attracted a lot of attention. In less than two seasons, Alonso has transformed a team that was far from the top positions into a serious title contender.
Florentino Pérez had identified Alonso as the ideal candidate to lead the club. His profile as a former player of the club, his tactical intelligence and his success in the dugout made him perfect for the job.
An Unexpected Turn
However, Manchester City has made a strong entrance into the race for Xabi Alonso. The English club, Real Madrid's main rivals in the Premier League and Champions League, are preparing for a new era. Pep Guardiola's continuity in the City dugout is in doubt, and the club has already begun to look for alternatives.
Manchester City sporting director Txiki Begiristain will leave the club at the end of this season. His successor will be Hugo Viana, who is tasked with keeping City at the top of European soccer. Viana, an expert in transfer elite talent, has appointed Xabi Alonso as the leader of the club's new project.
The New Era in Manchester
With the arrival of Hugo Viana, Manchester City wants to continue dominating European soccer. To do so, they need a coach who fits into the team's playing philosophy.
Alonso, with his offensive mindset, tactical approach and experience as an elite player, perfectly fits the profile City is looking for.
This move is an unexpected blow for Florentino Pérez, who sees one of his most ambitious plans fall apart. Alonso's departure to Manchester City not only deprives him of a great coach, but also strengthens one of his main rivals.
Mbappé: KO
Florentino Pérez has suffered another blow with the possible departure of Xabi Alonso to Manchester City. Although Florentino managed to sign Kylian Mbappe, he now faces a new setback as City could be interested in the French striker.
Alonso's arrival at City could difficult the situation even further, as the English team sees him as a possible reinforcement both on the bench and on the field.
The loss of Alonso, who was Pérez's big bet to lead Real Madrid, leaves the club at a crossroads and plunges its future into uncertainty.