MADRID – Real Madrid have begun planning for a potential managerial change this summer, with Aston Villa’s Unai Emery emerging as the leading candidate to take over at the Santiago Bernabéu. According to journalist Ramón Álvarez de Mon, the club has already initiated “behind-the-scenes” contacts to assess Emery’s availability.
While Álvaro Arbeloa currently holds the position as interim manager following the dismissal of Xabi Alonso, his continuity for the 2026/27 season is far from guaranteed.
The Arbeloa Dilemma
Arbeloa’s tenure has been a rollercoaster. After a disastrous Copa del Rey exit against Albacete, he managed to stabilize the ship with key victories over Monaco and Villarreal. However, yesterday’s 4-2 defeat to Benfica in Lisbon has once again cast doubt on his ability to lead the Merengues long-term.
The board is reportedly waiting for the final stretch of the season to make a definitive decision, but they are not taking any chances.
Why Unai Emery?
At 54, Emery is widely regarded as one of Europe’s elite tactical minds. His resume is legendary:
- Europa League Master: Four titles (three with Sevilla, one with Villarreal).
- Premier League Success: He has transformed Aston Villa into a top-tier contender in England.
- Experience: Successful stints at Valencia, PSG, and Arsenal.
Despite being under contract with Villa until June 2029, the lure of the Real Madrid job and a return to his home country could prove irresistible. For Real Madrid, Emery represents a safe, high-pedigree pair of hands to lead a squad filled with young superstars like Mbappé and Vinícius Jr.
A Crucial Month Ahead
For Arbeloa, every match is now a final. To keep his job, he must prove he can deliver consistent results and tactical maturity. If not, the path seems clear for Unai Emery to make a sensational return to La Liga as the head of the world’s most successful club.
Filepe Junior is a football writer tracking La Liga transfers, covering major signings, squad planning, and player movements across Spanish clubs.
