The uncertainty surrounding the future of Carlo Ancelotti in it real Madrid has generated a whirlwind of speculation and rumors in recent months. While some media point to a possible renewal, others assume his departure on June 30, 2024, heading to the Brazil team. Faced with this situation, the white club has not stood by and is already exploring options for the bench, with one of the names that resonates strongly being Roberto De Zerbi, current Brighton manager. The Italian gets into the fight with Xabi Alonso, current coach of Bayer Leverkusen.
According to the information provided by journalist Joaquím Piera from the newspaper Sport, Real Madrid has established contact with De Zerbi as part of its strategy to ensure a replacement of guarantees on the bench. The Italian has stood out for his excellent work and is emerging as a coach called to lead an elite team in the near future.
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Even the renowned Pep Guardiola has praised De Zerbi, cataloging him as “one of the most influential technicians of the last twenty years.” This admiration is not foreign to many members of Madrid, who see him as the ideal candidate to succeed the successful Spanish coach when he decides to leave the Manchester City bench.
Although the negotiations are in an initial phase, the merengue club sees in De Zerbi the ideal figure to lead a new project, characterized by youth and emerging talent. The possible arrival of Kylian Mbappé could fit perfectly into this scenario, forming a team of experience and youthful freshness.
Why did Real Madrid focus on De Zerbi?
What makes De Zerbi a different candidate is his tactical approach. Despite being Italian, his playing philosophy distances itself from the stereotype associated with football in his country. His teams are characterized by an offensive style and dangerous transitions, although without neglecting possession of the ball at crucial moments of the match.
His ability to enhance the performance of young talents and revitalize players in low moments is evident. A clear example is the case of Ansu Fati, who under the direction of De Zerbi has experienced a notable improvement, contributing significantly to the team in the Premier and Europa League.
Where did De Zarbi train before Brighton?
Roberto de Zerbi was a soccer player and spent his career almost entirely in Italy. He wore the shirt of different teams such as Monza, Padova, US Avellino, Catania, Napoli, Brescia and also had a stint in Romanian football when he went to CFR Cluj. As a coach, he started in the 2013/2014 season leading Darfo Boario from his native country.
The following year he emigrated to Foggia and spent two years there with 57% effectiveness in points at play. After a frustrated spell at Benevento, where he was relegated, he had a great cycle at Sassuolo. With this modest Italian club he achieved eighth position in Serie A. He spent three seasons before leaving for Shakhtar Donetsk.
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