“`html
Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez is considering former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca as a potential replacement on the bench, according to reports. The news arrives as the club continues to evaluate options for the future, with current personnel under scrutiny.
Maresca on Pérez’s Radar
Table of Contents
The Sun reports that Pérez has added maresca to a shortlist of candidates for the Real Madrid managerial position.The Italian coach, who previously worked with Pep Guardiola, was recently dismissed by Chelsea, making him available for other opportunities. While Maresca presents an intriguing possibility,the situation remains fluid.
Klopp Remains a Strong Contender
Despite interest in Maresca,the German coach currently away from Red Bull remains the frontrunner in the eyes of many. Sky Sport Germany suggests that Klopp is open to returning to management, and both Real Madrid and the German National Team coudl be appealing destinations.
🚨 Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez has added former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca to his shortlist for the Real Madrid head coach role.
(Source: The Sun) pic.twitter.com/D0kxTGB6ay
– Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) January 18, 2026
A Challenging Climate at the Bernabéu
The current atmosphere at Real Madrid is delicate. The team is facing challenges on the pitch, and some players are reportedly exhibiting a less-than-ideal attitude, both during games and in their personal conduct. This situation is understandably frustrating for the club’s passionate fanbase, who have grown weary of recent struggles over the past year and a half.
Securing a new manager is only part of the equation. To succeed on the Madrid bench requires immense mental fortitude – and the ability to navigate a complex club structure. Florentino Pérez is known for his direct involvement in team affairs, meaning any new coach must be pleasant working within that framework. The search for a new manager began after a string of disappointing results and concerns about the team’s overall performance. Maresca, having been dismissed from Chelsea in January 2026, became available, prompting Pérez to consider him alongside other candidates, most notably Jürgen Klopp. The situation ended, as of January 19, 2026, with both Maresca and Klopp remaining possibilities, but no definitive decision made. The club continues it’s evaluation process.
