Real Madrid will target Roberto De Zerbi as Carlo Ancelotti’s replacement after contacting the 44-year-old Brighton & Hove Albion manager.
According to a report by Spanish outlet SPORT, Roberto De Zerbi is the subject of interest from Real Madrid. The Merengues are planning for life after Carlo Ancelotti, who will likely become the next head coach for Brazil. And they have contacted the 44-year-old Brighton & Hove Albion manager.
Roberto De Zerbi has established himself as one of the most highly-rated young managers in the world in the last few years. The Italian tactician rose in prominence during his stint with Sassuolo with the Serie A club’s eye-catching brand of football capturing the attention of fans and pundits alike.
The 44-year-old arrived in the Premier League last year, replacing Graham Potter at Brighton & Hove Albion. De Zerbi took little time to get his ideas through, with the Seagulls taking the Premier League by storm. And they finished sixth in the standings last season, qualifying for the UEFA Europa League for the first time.
Things have not been as hunky-dory this season, with Brighton blowing hot and cold thus far. But De Zerbi’s stock remains high, with many high-profile clubs, including Manchester United, considering pursuing him. Meanwhile, he is also a target for La Liga heavyweights Real Madrid.
Carlo Ancelotti’s long-term Real Madrid future is uncertain, with Brazil’s federation hoping to appoint him as the next head coach for the Selecao this year. So, it behoves Los Blancos to scour the market for a potential replacement. Roberto De Zerbi has thus emerged as a viable target for Real Madrid.
The Merengues also have other options on their radar, including Xabi Alonso. But the report by SPORT suggests the Brighton & Hove Albion manager is their top target. With Real Madrid already contacting the 44-year-old, a move ahead of the 2024/25 season might be on the cards.
Any move for De Zerbi or another manager hinges on Ancelotti’s decision at the end of the season. With Brazil keen on securing the Italian tactician’s services, his 44-year-old compatriot might arrive from the Premier League later this year.
