According to the press in Spain, Mikel Arteta has emerged as potential Real Madrid target amidst Carlo Ancelotti’s shaky season, with Arsenal laughably said to be looking at Roberto De Zerbi as a replacement.

SEVILLE, SPAIN - MARCH 05: Carlo Ancelotti, Manager of Real Madrid, looks on prior to the LaLiga Santander match between Real Betis and Real Madrid CF at Estadio Benito Villamarin on March 05, 2023 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
SEVILLE, SPAIN – MARCH 05: Carlo Ancelotti, Manager of Real Madrid, looks on prior to the LaLiga Santander match between Real Betis and Real Madrid CF at Estadio Benito Villamarin on March 05, 2023 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Real Madrid considers coaching options

Carlo Ancelotti’s tenure at Real Madrid seems uncertain after a lacklustre domestic season.

With the club trailing 12 points behind Barcelona in La Liga and facing potential elimination from the Copa del Rey, management may explore new coaching options.

Mikel Arteta is reportedly on their radar, as his success with the Gunners has attracted attention from the Spanish giants.

Arsenal’s possible replacement for Arteta

While Arteta has dismissed rumours of a move to Real Madrid in the past, it is being claimed by the Spanish press that Arsenal might be preparing for the possibility of his departure.

Also, according to Football365, the club is considering Roberto De Zerbi, currently managing Brighton and Hove Albion, as Arteta’s potential successor.

I’ll eat one of my many hats if this turns out to be true.

Arteta’s success catches Madrid’s attention

There is no denying that Arteta has significantly raised his profile this season, guiding Arsenal to the top of the Premier League table and keeping them there for most of the season.

This achievement could make him an appealing candidate for Real Madrid, should they decide to part ways with Ancelotti in the summer.

Still, I can’t imagine Arteta going anywhere for quite a while given the support he has had from the owners, and what he’s been building at Arsenal, the club he loves above all others.