Ancelotti leaves, Real Madrid eye Xabi Alonso: Photos

Carlo Ancelotti leaves his position as Real Madrid manager

Carlo Ancelotti has bid farewell to Real Madrid, ending his second spell at the club after three seasons. The Italian manager leaves the Bernabeu with a record of 173 wins, 36 draws and 41 defeats in all competitions, and having won two La Liga titles, one Copa del Rey, one UEFA Champions League, one UEFA Super Cup and one FIFA Club World Cup.

Xabi Alonso emerges as leading candidate to replace Ancelotti

Real Madrid are now on the lookout for a new manager, and Xabi Alonso has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Ancelotti. The former Liverpool and Bayern Munich midfielder is currently manager of Real Madrid Castilla, the club's reserve team, and has impressed with his work with the young players in the squad.

Alonso is a popular figure at Real Madrid, having played for the club for five seasons and winning the Champions League twice. He is also familiar with the club's philosophy and playing style, having worked under Ancelotti as a player.

Other candidates who have been linked with the Real Madrid job include Mauricio Pochettino, Luis Enrique and Zinedine Zidane. However, Alonso is the current favorite, and it is believed that he could be appointed as early as next week.