Carlo Ancelotti’s Departure from Real Madrid: A New Chapter Begins

Carlo Ancelotti’s Departure from Real Madrid: A New Chapter Begins

In a move that has been the subject of much speculation, Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed his impending departure from Real Madrid, stating that there’s “no need for drama” as he prepares to take on a new challenge. The Italian manager, known for his calm demeanor and tactical acumen, admitted that the team needs “fresh impetus” as he prepares to hand over the reins.

Ancelotti also revealed that he will be stepping into the role of head coach for Brazil, with his tenure set to begin on May 26, right after the conclusion of Madrid’s LaLiga campaign. This announcement comes as no surprise to those who have followed his career, as Ancelotti has long been linked with the prestigious position.

Real Madrid’s Official Announcement Pending

During a news conference on Tuesday, held ahead of Madrid’s game with Real Mallorca, Ancelotti was asked why the club has not yet made his departure official. In his usual composed manner, he responded, “Madrid will publish a statement when they want to, there’s no problem there.” He added, “They’ll do it when it’s the right time for Real Madrid … [Brazil] is a big challenge, but until May 26 I’m still Madrid coach. I want to end the final stage of this fantastic adventure well. Out of the respect I have for this club, the fans and players, I’m totally focused.”

Despite having a contract until June 2026, Ancelotti refused to disclose when he first learned he would be leaving Madrid at the end of the season. “What I talk about with the club is absolutely personal,” he said. “Football, like life, is an adventure that begins and ends. When you arrive at Real Madrid, you know that one day it’s over… I want to end things well here, that’s what my professionalism demands.”

Challenges and Setbacks

Real Madrid’s recent performance has been less than stellar, with the team suffering a 4-3 defeat to Barcelona in El Clásico on Sunday. This loss left them seven points behind the leaders at the top of the LaLiga table. The result means that Barça could be confirmed as champions if Madrid fails to beat Mallorca, or if Barça beats Espanyol on Thursday. Ancelotti has faced increasing pressure following an underwhelming season at the Bernabéu.

Madrid’s elimination in the Champions League quarterfinals and their defeat by Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final have compounded the situation. Sunday’s Clásico loss effectively ended their league title hopes, meaning they’ll end the domestic season without a major trophy.

A Mutual Decision

Reflecting on his departure, Ancelotti said, “I couldn’t be Real Madrid coach forever. [That’s] for a lot of reasons, it might be the club needs fresh impetus. They’re normal things in life, there’s no need for drama … Maybe it was the time for a change, that’s all. It’s a mutual decision to end it here.”

Ancelotti’s move to Brazil has been anticipated for some time, with CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues having previously considered him for the post in 2023. The Italian manager did not disclose why the CBF announced his signing on Monday, before his Madrid departure was formalized. “Everyone can act as they want to act,” Ancelotti said, denying any discomfort with the situation.

“If I didn’t have to give this news conference today, it would be a fantastic day,” he remarked. “I have to explain things that I don’t want to explain, and because I respect this [Real Madrid] shirt, I can’t.”

Looking Ahead: Xabi Alonso’s Arrival

As Ancelotti prepares to leave, ESPN reported on Monday that Madrid is finalizing a deal for Xabi Alonso to take over as his successor. Alonso, who confirmed his departure from Bayer Leverkusen, is expected to lead the team in next month’s Club World Cup in the United States.

When asked about Alonso’s impending arrival, Ancelotti expressed his admiration, saying, “I have a lot of affection for Xabi Alonso. I don’t have a lot of advice to give him, because he has all the tools to be a great coach in the future.”

• Carlo Ancelotti confirms departure from Real Madrid.
• He will become Brazil’s head coach starting May 26.
• Real Madrid’s official announcement is pending.
• Madrid’s recent performance has been underwhelming.
• Xabi Alonso is set to succeed Ancelotti.