Italian specialist Enzo Maresca, who was dismissed from Chelsea's position on January 1, 2026, could unexpectedly approach one of the biggest positions in European football. According to reports, the experienced coach has been included in the list of candidates under consideration for the Real Madrid head coach position.
This was reported by Sky Sport Germany. According to the source, the "Royal Club" management is expanding possible options, and Maresca is also on the list. That is, this doesn't mean an appointment yet, but being named at a club like Real Madrid is also a big signal.
At the same time, Zinedine Zidane remains the preferred candidate in Madrid. However, the situation is not the same "ideal scenario" as before: it is currently being emphasized that the relationship between Zidane and club president Florentino Perez is not as strong as it was in the past. Moreover, Zidane has personal plans - he wants to manage the French national team after the 2026 World Cup. Therefore, time can become a decisive factor for Real Madrid.
It is no coincidence that Maresca is mentioned as a candidate. He led Chelsea from July 2024 to January 2026, winning the Conference League and the Club World Cup with the team. That is, he is seen as a specialist who can give results in a short time and quickly "sits down" on a properly constructed project.
In short, the main option at Real Madrid is still Zidane, but it seems the club has also prepared backup scenarios. And Maresca appears as precisely this "Plan B" or even "an option that can turn into Plan A." In football, one thing is clear: one decision - and the whole picture changes.
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