Real Madrid have a three-man shortlist as they search for their sixth manager in six years at the end of this season.

Mauricio Pochettino leads the list ahead of former boss Jose Mourinho. Real have not ruled out the highly unlikely return of Zinedine Zidane to the job he left last summer.

While Pochettino has no release clause in his contract that runs until 2023, Mourinho is available. President Florentino Perez is a friend, but other directors are against a return.

Jose Mourinho (left) and Mauricio Pochettino are on the shortlist to become Real Madrid boss

JOSE MOURINHO

Availability

Free as a bird and chirping about being open to the idea of going back. Has recently called Real 'unique' and 'the iconic club'.

5/5

Sustainability

It is an advantage that he does not get on well with captain Sergio Ramos. Part of Mourinho's remit would be a major clear-out.

2/5

Mourinho does not get on with Sergio Ramos and if he came back the captain could be sold

Record

Success in Portugal, England, Italy, Spain and in Europe. But clubs seem to thrive after his - normally acrimonious - departure.

3/5

Fans

Divisive. Some love him, seeing his abrasive attitude as the best way to take on Barcelona. Others want a coach who can nurture youth.

3/5

TOTAL: 13/25

Some fans think his abrasive attitude is the best way to take on Barcelona but others disagree

Mauricio Pochettino

Availability

Madrid were stunned to find out he had signed a deal until 2023 at Spurs without a release clause. Daniel Levy could charge accordingly.

2/5

Sustainability

Young talent such as Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo Goes, Brahim Diaz, Sergio Reguilon and Marcos Llorente. That would suit Pochettino.

4/5

Pochettino could be the name to nurture Real Madrid's young talents like Vinicius Junior

Record

Yet to win a trophy. That makes him less attractive to fans, who had him behind Jurgen Klopp, Zidane and Mourinho in a recent poll.

3/5

Fans

Not as revered in Spain as in England because he won nothing at Espanyol. Anti-Barcelona and pro-Madrid, which goes down well.

3/5

TOTAL: 12/25