Carlo Ancelotti's future at Real Madrid hung precariously in the balance just days before a crucial match against Osasuna. Back-to-back defeats against Barcelona and AC Milan had sparked intense speculation,

Real Madrid have already made a decision on who will replace Carlo Ancelotti if he's sacked mid-season, and the short-term appointment would lead to a Liverpool hero taking charge in the summer, according to reports.

Real Madrid have reportedly identified the "ideal person" to replace Carlo Ancelotti if results continue to disappoint – and internal discussions having already taken place ahead of potential switch.