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Pressure is mounting at Real Madrid as reports continue to grow over the future of manager Alvaro Arbeloa following a disappointing run of results.
With the Spanish giants already out of the UEFA Champions League and trailing rivals Barcelona in La Liga, speculation has intensified over who could take charge next season.
Arbeloa was appointed after the departure of Xabi Alonso in January, but his record has fallen short of expectations.
Alonso reportedly left the Santiago Bernabéu with a league win ratio of 74 percent, while Arbeloa has managed only 64 percent and has already suffered more defeats despite coaching fewer matches.
His position was further weakened after a shock Copa del Rey defeat to second-tier side Albacete Balompié shortly after taking charge.
One of the most surprising names now being linked with the role is former Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho.
Mourinho previously managed the club between 2010 and 2013, winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup during his time in Madrid.
The Portuguese tactician is currently in charge of Benfica, but reports suggest he would be interested in a return to the Bernabéu if the opportunity arises.
According to football analyst Guillem Balague, club president Florentino Perez values managers who can control dressing-room personalities and manage star players rather than focusing heavily on tactical philosophy.
That leadership style is said to explain Perez’s preference for high-profile figures such as Mourinho, Zinedine Zidane and Carlo Ancelotti.
However, Mourinho is reportedly not the only option being considered.
Mauricio Pochettino is said to remain a strong candidate, although his current commitment to the United States men’s national soccer team ahead of the World Cup could complicate any move.
Didier Deschamps is another name in the frame, especially given his experience managing elite players with the France national football team.
Italian coach Massimiliano Allegri has also been mentioned, with reports suggesting he fits the calm and experienced profile Perez admires.
Meanwhile, former Liverpool FC manager Jurgen Klopp has been linked externally, though insiders believe his hands-on style may not suit the club’s structure.
As uncertainty grows, Real Madrid face a crucial summer that could shape the next era of the club.
Whether Perez chooses a familiar face like Mourinho or a fresh direction, the decision is expected to dominate football headlines in the coming weeks.
