Rafa Benitez 'set for' Real Madrid sack: Who could replace the Spaniard at the Bernabeu?
Jose Mourinho, Zinedine Zidane and Joachim Low among the candidates
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Real Madrid are close to dismissing manager Rafael Benítez just six months into a three-year contract, according to reports, leaving the door open for a number of candidates.
Florentino Pérez, the Madrid president, has called for an extraordinary meeting where various sources suggest he will relieve the former Napoli and Liverpool boss of his duties.
It is unlikely the Spanish giants would sack Benítez without a suitable replacement in waiting – with rumours that José Mourinho could return to the Santiago Bernabéu persisting despite several denials from both camps. Other candidates include Alejandro Sabella and Zinedine Zidane.
For a full round-up of the early names to be linked with the post, see below...
This is not the first occasion that Benítez's future has been called into doubt. Perez was forced to call a press conference on 23 November 2015 after the 4-0 defeat by Barcelona led to the Spaniard suffering abuse from Madrid supporters.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments