Not Xabi Alonso or Zidane: Real Madrid may have Carlo Ancelotti's successor

As Carlo Ancelotti's time at Real Madrid seemingly winds down, speculation is rife over who could be his successor. One name that has consistently surfaced in the rumor mill is that of club legend Raúl González Blanco. Currently managing Real Madrid Castilla, the club's B team, Raúl has been patiently waiting for his opportunity to take the reins of the first team.

A Familiar Face for a New Era

Raúl González Blanco is more than just a name for Real Madrid fans; he is a symbol of the club's golden era. As a player, he graced the Santiago Bernabéu with his elegance, skill, and unwavering commitment. His appointment as the manager of Castilla was seen as a strategic move by the club to groom a future first-team manager who understood the club's DNA.

Should Ancelotti depart, Raúl would be a popular choice among the fans. His playing career was characterized by loyalty, professionalism, and a deep understanding of the Real Madrid way. These qualities make him an ideal candidate to maintain the club's high standards and continue its success.

The Competition

However, Raúl is not the only name in the hat. Other former Real Madrid greats like Zinedine Zidane and Xabi Alonso have also been linked with the position. Zidane, of course, has already enjoyed immense success as the club's manager, leading them to multiple Champions League titles. Alonso, meanwhile, has been impressing in his role as manager of Bayer Leverkusen, showcasing his tactical acumen and ability to develop young talent.

The decision of who to appoint as the next Real Madrid manager will be a crucial one for the club. The chosen candidate will not only have to deal with the immense pressure that comes with managing such a prestigious club but also ensure that the team continues to compete at the highest level both domestically and in Europe.

Raúl's Readiness

Raúl has spent several years honing his managerial skills with Castilla. During his time in charge, he has implemented a possession-based style of play that is reminiscent of the tiki-taka philosophy that has been so successful at Barcelona. However, he has also shown a willingness to adapt his tactics to suit the specific needs of his team.

Many believe that Raúl is now ready for the step up to the first team. His experience as a player, combined with his managerial experience, makes him a well-rounded candidate. Moreover, his appointment would provide a sense of continuity and stability to the club at a time when there is a lot of uncertainty surrounding the future of the first-team squad.

The Fans' Choice

A recent poll conducted by a leading Spanish newspaper revealed that a significant majority of Real Madrid fans would like to see Raúl appointed as the club's next manager. This is a testament to the popularity of the former captain and the belief that he is the right man to lead the club into the future.

Conclusion

The appointment of a new manager is always a significant event for any football club, but it is particularly so for a club of Real Madrid's stature. While there are several strong candidates in the running, Raúl González Blanco appears to be the fans' favorite. His experience, his understanding of the club, and his playing philosophy make him an attractive proposition. Only time will tell if he is given the opportunity to lead Real Madrid into a new era.