Real Madrid instantly decide on four managers to replace Alvaro Arbeloa after Bayern Munich defeat

Following Real Madrid’s Champions League exit against Bayern Munich, head coach Álvaro Arbeloa’s future appears uncertain, as Los Blancos reportedly have a four-man shortlist to replace the Spaniard at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Real exited the Champions League with a 4–3 defeat (6–4 on aggregate) to Vincent Kompany’s Bayern on Wednesday (April 15), as late strikes from Luis Díaz and Michael Olise ensured the Bavarians’ progression to a mouthwatering semi-final clash against reigning European champions PSG.

Meanwhile, the defeat all but confirmed a second successive trophyless season for Real, with the side already out of the Copa del Rey and nine points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona with just seven games remaining.

For most clubs, reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League and finishing second in the league would be seen as a relatively good season, but Real Madrid are unlikely to accept such a showing.

Reports from The Athletic suggest that Arbeloa could lose his job despite only taking on the role in January.

The outlet reports that “he will very likely be dismissed”, although he may retain his position until the end of the season.

After last night’s match, Arbeloa insisted that he was “not thinking” about his future, adding: “I’ll say it again: it’s the club’s decision and I’m a loyal supporter. All I want is for Real Madrid to win, regardless of who’s in charge.”

So, if Arbeloa were to be relieved of his duties, who could succeed him in the Spanish capital?

Former Liverpool boss Jürgen Klopp is reportedly highly thought of at the club, despite the German insisting that he is happy in his role at Red Bull.

Club president Florentino Pérez is also fond of Los Blancos legend Zinedine Zidane, although the Frenchman remains linked with the soon-to-be-vacant France job, with Didier Deschamps set to step down following this summer’s World Cup.

Zidane guided Real to three consecutive Champions League titles as head coach between 2016 and 2018.

Deschamps has also reportedly been considered, despite not managing a club side since taking charge of Marseille in 2012.

USMNT boss Mauricio Pochettino is also on Real’s radar and is highly regarded by the club’s hierarchy, particularly Pérez.

Pochettino’s contract is set to expire after the World Cup, although he has suggested he could remain in his current role beyond the tournament.