Carlo Ancelotti will leave Real Madrid at the end of the season. The club has confirmed his exit after he was named the new Brazil head coach.
The Brazilian Football Federation (CBF) announced Ancelotti’s appointment two weeks ago. He is set to begin his duties on 26 May, just after the end of Madrid’s campaign.
Real Madrid Confirm Departure
Real Madrid (4.59) released an official statement on Friday confirming the decision. The statement read: “Real Madrid C.F. and Carlo Ancelotti have reached an agreement to end his time as Real Madrid coach. Our club would like to express its gratitude and affection to one of the great legends of Real Madrid and world football.
“Carlo Ancelotti has led our team through one of the most successful periods in our 123 years of existence and has become the coach with the most titles in our history: Three European Cups, three Club World Cups, three European Super Cups, two leagues, two Copa del Reys and two Spanish Super Cups. In total, 15 titles during the six seasons in which he has belonged to our club.”
This announcement follows cordial negotiations between all parties involved. Diego Fernandes represented the CBF during these talks. All sides agreed amicably on the terms of Ancelotti’s release.
Emotional Farewell From Club and Coach
Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez praised Ancelotti, stating: “Carlo Ancelotti is now part of the great Madrid family forever. We are proud to have been able to enjoy a coach who has helped us achieve so much success and who has also represented the values of our club in an exemplary manner.”
Ancelotti, in turn, shared a heartfelt goodbye via social media. “Today, we go our separate ways again. Today again I take in my heart every moment lived in this wonderful second stage as Real Madrid coach,” he wrote. “It’s been unforgettable years, an incredible journey full of emotions, titles and, above all, the pride of representing this shield.
“Thanks to the president Florentino Perez, to the club, to my players, to my staff and, above all, to this unique fan that has always made me feel like one of them. What we have achieved together will remain forever in the memory of Madridism, not only for the triumphs, but for the way we achieved them.
“The magic nights of the Bernabéu are already football history. Now a new adventure begins, but my bond with Real Madrid is eternal. See you soon, Madridistas.”
Xabi Alonso Tipped as Likely Successor
According to The Athletic, Real Madrid has already held talks with Xabi Alonso. The current Bayer Leverkusen coach is seen as the top candidate to replace Ancelotti. These discussions reportedly took place during the ongoing season.
Club insiders believe Alonso will be in charge of the revamped Club World Cup. The Spanish giants begin their campaign against Al Hilal on 18 June in Miami. Alonso, a former Madrid midfielder, confirmed on 9 May that he would leave Leverkusen at the end of the season.
A Second Spell Full of Glory
Ancelotti returned to Madrid in June 2021 for his second stint. He had previously led the club to ‘La Décima’ in 2014. His second tenure, though, elevated him to legendary status.
He has won 15 titles with the club overall. These include three Champions Leagues, two La Liga titles, and multiple domestic trophies. His calm demeanour and tactical experience made him a fan favourite.
Though his final season may end trophyless, his impact is undisputed. The 4-3 Clasico loss to Barcelona last weekend leaves Madrid seven points behind with only three league games left. Their Copa del Rey final loss and Champions League quarter-final exit confirmed a difficult campaign.
Brazil’s Role a Long Time in the Making
Ancelotti has long been admired by the Brazilian FA. Talks had taken place in 2022 and 2023, as per The Athletic. However, the coach renewed his Madrid contract until June 2026 in December.
This changed after Dorival Junior’s dismissal in March. The CBF reignited its pursuit, and Ancelotti agreed to a one-year contract until the end of the 2026 World Cup. This tournament will be held across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
A Coach Written Into Club History
Carlo Ancelotti’s record at Real Madrid speaks volumes. His three Champions League titles have earned him a place in the club’s museum. He is now considered one of the greatest — if not the greatest — coaches in Real Madrid’s history.
‘La Decimocuarta’ in 2022 highlighted his knack for comebacks. It restored belief and tradition at the Bernabeu. Ancelotti blended success with values, making it difficult to imagine his departure.
Although unlikely to return as a coach, his legacy will remain. He departs as Madrid’s most successful manager. His influence may also guide online sports betting trends as fans anticipate how the team performs without him.
