Editor’s note: Real Madrid have now made the move official, dropping the axe on manager Rafael Benítez and replacing him with Zinedane Zidane. Our earlier report is below.
Current Real Madrid manager, Rafael Benítez, is very close to being axed by Real Madrid, according to reports. Journalist Guillem Balague—who is not always reliable—first broke the story and the overriding majority of news sources have since confirmed this.
Benítez, who replaced Carlo Ancelotti, the man who led Real Madrid to “La Demica”—the team’s tenth European Cup or Champions League win—has had a difficult time in the capital of Spain. 2015 on the whole was a difficult year for Real Madrid, and 2016 did not get off to a good start as they drew 2-2 with Gary Neville’s Valencia. Los Blancos sit third in the La Liga table, four points behind local rivals Atlético Madrid and two points behind Barcelona, who have a game in hand.
Zinedine Zidane has been touted as Benítez’ successor. One of the greatest players ever to grace the game, the Frenchman’s only managerial experience is in an assistant role to Carlo Ancelotti and as head coach of Real Madrid Castilla; effectively Real’s reserve team which also forms part of the youth academy. He was renowned for his footballing intelligence and well-rounded ability and if he can translate this into management he will be able to get a lot out of this current side.
This current season still has much to offer. Real, though they are slipping behind their rivals, still are very much in the title race and have a Last 16 tie which they should win against Roma. Zidane has plenty to aim for in this season alone, and should he be given a long-term role he will be able to look beyond the current season and try to create a dynasty at the club with whom he won so many trophies.
