Carlo Ancelotti to Depart Real Madrid as Club Agrees to Exit Terms

Real Madrid and their esteemed manager, Carlo Ancelotti, have reached a mutual agreement for the Italian coach to leave the club at the end of the 2024-25 La Liga season, marking the end of a trophy-laden era for the Spanish giants. The decision comes after a challenging campaign that saw Real Madrid exit the UEFA Champions League in the quarterfinals against Arsenal and lose the Copa del Rey final to rivals Barcelona, prompting speculation about Ancelotti’s future. The agreement, finalized after weeks of negotiations, allows Ancelotti to depart with dignity, honoring his status as one of the most decorated managers in the club’s history.

Ancelotti, who returned to Real Madrid in 2021 for his second stint, has been a towering figure at the Santiago Bernabéu, amassing 11 trophies, including two La Liga titles, two Champions League crowns, and a Club World Cup. His tactical acumen and calm leadership restored Real Madrid’s dominance in Europe, particularly with the 2022 Champions League triumph. However, this season’s disappointments, coupled with the club trailing Barcelona by four points in the La Liga title race with only a few games remaining, have led to a consensus that a new chapter is needed. Sources close to the club indicate that Real Madrid’s president, Florentino Pérez, initially resisted Ancelotti’s exit but ultimately agreed to a respectful parting of ways, acknowledging his contributions.

The 65-year-old manager has been heavily linked with the Brazilian national team, with reports suggesting an agreement was nearly finalized for him to take over ahead of the 2026 World Cup. However, recent developments indicate that negotiations with the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) have stalled due to disagreements over timing and financial terms. Ancelotti had expressed a desire to remain with Real Madrid for the FIFA Club World Cup in June and July, a stance that conflicted with Brazil’s need for a coach by June for World Cup qualifiers. Some reports even suggest that Ancelotti has rejected Brazil’s offer, with Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal emerging as a potential destination, though nothing has been confirmed.

Ancelotti addressed his future in a press conference ahead of Real Madrid’s recent match against Celta Vigo, stating, “I have a lot of affection for my club, my players, and the fans, and I will speak about my future on the 25th of May.” True to his word, he has maintained a dignified silence, refusing to fuel speculation while focusing on guiding Real Madrid through their final La Liga fixtures. The club’s last game of the season, against Real Sociedad on May 25, is expected to be Ancelotti’s farewell match, with preparations already underway for a heartfelt tribute to the departing legend.

Real Madrid has wasted no time planning for the future, with Bayer Leverkusen’s Xabi Alonso emerging as the frontrunner to replace Ancelotti. Alonso, a former Real Madrid midfielder, has earned widespread acclaim for leading Leverkusen to a Bundesliga title and a DFB Pokal triumph, making him a natural fit for the Bernabéu. Reports suggest that Alonso would take over after the Club World Cup, with Real Madrid’s director of football, Santiago Solari, potentially serving as an interim coach for the tournament. The club is also reportedly considering a squad overhaul, with young talents like Vinicius Junior expected to stay, while others, such as goalkeeper Andriy Lunin, may seek new opportunities elsewhere.

The agreement with Ancelotti has not been without tension. Some reports indicate that Pérez was frustrated by Ancelotti’s negotiations with Brazil, particularly as they coincided with a critical phase of the season. Financial disputes also arose, with Ancelotti’s entourage reportedly requesting €4 million in pending salary, a demand that Real Madrid contested, arguing that the coach was choosing to leave rather than being sacked. Despite these challenges, both parties have prioritized a harmonious resolution, ensuring that Ancelotti’s legacy remains intact.