Former Real Madrid Coaches: Where Are They Now?
Real Madrid, the Whites, Los Blancos, whatever you call them, it's undeniable that managing this club is one of the most high-profile and scrutinized jobs in the football world. With a rich history and sky-high expectations, the managerial hot seat at the Santiago Bernabéu has seen its fair share of legends and short-term appointments. So, what happens to these former coaches after their time in the Spanish capital? Let's dive in and take a look at where some of the most notable former Real Madrid managers are now.
The Elite Few: Champions League Winners
Let's start with the guys who delivered the Champions League trophy, because, let's be honest, that's the benchmark for success at Real Madrid. Winning the Champions League is like the holy grail for Madridistas, and those who achieve it are forever etched in the club's history.
Zinedine Zidane
Ah, Zizou. Arguably one of the most beloved figures in Real Madrid history, both as a player and a manager. Zinedine Zidane's managerial career is nothing short of legendary. After taking over in 2016, he led Real Madrid to an unprecedented three consecutive Champions League titles (2016, 2017, and 2018). His calm demeanor, tactical acumen, and ability to get the best out of his star-studded squad made him a massive success. After his first stint, he briefly stepped away before returning for another spell. More recently, Zidane has been linked with various top clubs and national teams, with many expecting him to take on a new managerial challenge soon. Whether it's PSG, Juventus, or the French national team, the football world eagerly awaits his next move. His legacy at Real Madrid is secure, and his next chapter promises to be just as compelling. Guys Remember his volley in the 2002 Champions League final? Goosebumps!
Carlo Ancelotti
Carletto, the master of man-management and tactical flexibility, has had two spells at Real Madrid. His first stint culminated in La DĂ©cima (the tenth Champions League title) in 2014, a trophy that had eluded the club for over a decade. After leaving in 2015, he went on to manage Bayern Munich, Napoli, and Everton before returning to Madrid in 2021. In his second spell, Ancelotti once again proved his worth by winning La Liga and the Champions League in the 2021-22 season, further cementing his place as one of the greatest managers of all time. Currently, Ancelotti is still at the helm of Real Madrid, continuing to build on his legacy and aiming for more silverware. His ability to adapt to different playing styles and his close relationships with his players make him a formidable force. He is a tactical genius, capable of reading games and making crucial changes that turn the tide in his team's favor. Under his guidance, Real Madrid continues to be a dominant force in both domestic and European competitions.
The Contenders: Title Winners and Notable Names
These coaches may not have lifted the Champions League trophy, but they still brought success and left their mark on Real Madrid. They won La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and other titles, contributing to the club's rich history.
José Mourinho
The Special One. José Mourinho's time at Real Madrid was marked by both success and controversy. He arrived in 2010 with the mission of breaking Barcelona's dominance, and he delivered La Liga title in 2012 with a record-breaking 100 points. His tenure was characterized by intense rivalries, tactical battles, and a demanding style of management. After leaving Real Madrid in 2013, Mourinho returned to Chelsea, where he won another Premier League title. He then managed Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur before taking over at AS Roma in 2021. At Roma, he led the team to victory in the UEFA Europa Conference League in 2022, becoming the first manager to win all three major European trophies (Champions League, Europa League, and Europa Conference League). Mourinho's career has been a rollercoaster, filled with highs and lows, but his impact on football is undeniable. His tactical innovation and ability to motivate players have made him one of the most influential figures in the sport.
Manuel Pellegrini
The Engineer. Manuel Pellegrini had a relatively short but impactful spell at Real Madrid in the 2009-2010 season. While he didn't win any major trophies, he guided the team to a then-record 96 points in La Liga, only to finish second behind Barcelona. After leaving Real Madrid, Pellegrini went on to manage Málaga, where he led them to the Champions League quarterfinals. He then joined Manchester City, winning the Premier League title in 2014. Following his time in England, he managed Hebei China Fortune and West Ham United before taking over at Real Betis in 2020. At Real Betis, Pellegrini has enjoyed considerable success, winning the Copa del Rey in 2022 and consistently guiding the team to European qualification. His calm and methodical approach, combined with his tactical expertise, has made him a highly respected figure in the football world.
The Ones We Remember: Brief Stints and Interesting Stories
Not all managers have long tenures at Real Madrid, but some leave lasting impressions for various reasons. Whether it's a surprising appointment, a brief moment of success, or a controversial departure, these managers are part of Real Madrid's rich tapestry.
Vicente del Bosque
A true Real Madrid legend. Vicente del Bosque, though often understated, had a hugely successful period as Real Madrid manager. He won two Champions League titles (2000 and 2002) and two La Liga titles (2001 and 2003), solidifying his place in the club's history. After leaving Real Madrid in 2003, Del Bosque took over the Spanish national team, leading them to victory in the 2010 World Cup and the 2012 European Championship. His calm and pragmatic approach, combined with his ability to create a cohesive team spirit, made him one of the most successful managers in the history of Spanish football. Del Bosque retired from coaching after Euro 2016, leaving behind a legacy of success and sportsmanship.
Fabio Capello
Fabio Capello had two spells at Real Madrid, both of which resulted in La Liga titles (1997 and 2007). Known for his tactical discipline and defensive solidity, Capello brought a winning mentality to the team. After his second stint at Real Madrid, he went on to manage the English national team and the Russian national team. Capello retired from coaching in 2018, after a brief spell with Chinese club Jiangsu Suning. His legacy as a strict disciplinarian and a tactical mastermind remains intact.
More Recent Managers
Real Madrid's managerial carousel keeps spinning and these are some of the more recent occupants of the hot seat.
Santiago Solari
After Julen Lopetegui was fired, Santiago Solari stepped in as interim, and then permanent, manager in 2018. While he initially stabilized the team, a series of poor results led to his dismissal in March 2019. After leaving Real Madrid, Solari had a stint as a youth coach at the club. More recently, he managed Club América in Mexico. His time at Real Madrid was short-lived, but he remains a respected figure within the club.
Julen Lopetegui
Julen Lopetegui's tenure at Real Madrid was one of the shortest and most turbulent in recent memory. He was appointed just before the 2018 World Cup, leading to his dismissal from the Spanish national team. His time at Real Madrid lasted only a few months, as he was sacked after a string of poor results. After leaving Real Madrid, Lopetegui took over at Sevilla, where he enjoyed considerable success, winning the Europa League in 2020. He then managed Wolves for a brief period before being sacked. Currently, he is the manager of West Ham United.
Conclusion
The life of a Real Madrid manager is never dull. From Champions League glory to unexpected dismissals, the journey is always filled with drama and intrigue. These former coaches have gone on to achieve success in various corners of the football world, each leaving their own unique mark on the beautiful game. Whether they're winning titles, developing young talent, or simply enjoying a well-deserved retirement, their time at Real Madrid remains a significant chapter in their careers. And for us fans, it's always interesting to see where these figures end up and how their careers continue to unfold. The Real Madrid managerial legacy is a captivating story, with each coach adding their own page to the ongoing saga.
