Real Madrid are keeping an eye on Porto Coach Julen Lopetegui, who has emerged as a candidate to replace Carlo Ancelotti, reports claim.
AS say Lopetegui, who this week guided Porto to a surprise Champions League quarter-final win over Bayern Munich, is on Madrid’s radar should Ancelotti depart at the end of the season.
It’s noted that Madrid President Florentino Perez earlier in the year confirmed the Italian would remain on the bench for the duration of the campaign, but made no mention of his future beyond that.
Ancelotti’s job is said to be tied to Madrid’s success in the Champions League, or lack thereof, and if they were to be knocked out at the quarter-final stage, he would be likely to go in the summer.
And should that come to pass, Lopetegui’s work with Porto has put him in the frame to takeover.
Lopetegui is well-known to Madrid, having taken charge of RM Castilla for a season in 2008-09 and been the club’s co-ordinator of international scouting.
He also worked with the Spain youth teams at Under-19 and Under-21 level and his record with young players, both in past jobs and at Porto, is, AS say, a factor in what is attracting Madrid.
Madrid believe their raft of young players could possibly develop well under Lopetegui, who is seen as a young, hungry Coach with a modern approach and Madrid connections.
