Real Madrid has reportedly granted Raul permission to engage in talks with Villarreal regarding their vacant managerial position. Raul, a legendary figure in Real’s history, who contributed 323 goals in 741 appearances across all competitions, has been nurturing his coaching career in the club’s youth ranks with Castilla since 2019. During his tenure, he led the team to victory in the UEFA Youth League during his first season and accumulated 58 wins in 135 matches in charge.
Due to his growing reputation as a coach, Raul is consistently considered an option for the head coach role of the first team whenever it becomes available. With the potential departure of Carlo Ancelotti from Real Madrid at the end of the 2023-24 season, President Florentino Perez faces a decision on whether to promote Raul to the senior dugout.
However, according to Marca, Raul may soon step up to the helm of another La Liga giant. Villarreal, who endured a challenging start to the season with three defeats in four matches, has sacked Quique Setien and is now eyeing Raul as his potential successor. Setien had only taken charge in October, but he managed only 18 wins in 39 matches, suffering 15 losses during his tenure.
Reportedly, Real Madrid officials have granted Raul permission to initiate discussions with Villarreal counterparts. Raul is reportedly interested in taking on the challenge at Estadio de la Ceramica, which remains one of the most attractive managerial positions in the country, outside of Real Madrid and Barcelona. Nevertheless, the report notes that Raul has declined several offers in recent months and is not in a hurry to depart from his current role in the capital.
A decision is expected to be reached relatively quickly, as Villarreal is keen to have a new head coach in place before the conclusion of the international break.
