The managerial position at Real Madrid has come under intense scrutiny following the club’s early exit from the UEFA Champions League at the hands of Arsenal. With speculation swirling about a potential move to the Brazil national team, head coach Carlo Ancelotti addressed his future with Los Blancos.
Tactically outmatched by Arsenal across both legs of the quarterfinal tie, Ancelotti has been widely criticized for the disappointing result. Speaking to the media on Saturday, the Italian manager made it clear that he still has the backing of the club and his players.
“I’ve spoken with the players, I’ve spoken with the club, and we’re still on the same page—which is to keep fighting for the titles we’re still in. Obviously, we’re hurt, just like the fans, about being knocked out of the most important competition, where the club has had the most success in recent years.”
Ancelotti also dismissed speculation about internal conflict, particularly with club president Florentino Perez: “These things can happen in soccer—you can’t win every time. But we’re aligned, there’s never been any conflict with the club because we’re in the same boat, through the good times and the bad. Anyone saying there’s a clash between me and the club, or with the president, isn’t telling the truth.
“The truth is, the president has shown me more affection in this moment than even in the moments when we were winning. We live in a world where everything gets questioned. Even a club that’s won almost 30 titles in 11 years gets questioned—so imagine if I’m going to be worried over one loss. I’m not worried at all,” Ancelotti ended his response.
Real Madrid are still in contention for the La Liga title and will face Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final, giving Ancelotti a chance to end the season on a high note. Still, the veteran manager stopped short of confirming he will remain beyond the current campaign.
Reports suggest Ancelotti’s exit is imminent
Ancelotti’s contract with Real Madrid runs through June 2026, meaning one more season in the dugout, and he has consistently stated his intention to honor it. However, multiple reports now suggest he is expected to part ways with the club after the 2024–25 season.
According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Ancelotti is likely to leave at the end of the campaign and take over as head coach of Brazil’s national team. The 64-year-old has long been seen as the top choice of the Brazilian Football Confederation.
Asked directly about the links to Brazil, Ancelotti remained cautious: “There’s absolutely nothing to say. As I’ve said before, we’ll talk about it at the end of the season.” The Italian boss was also reluctant to reaffirm his continuity in the role for the upcoming Club World Cup, leading to more speculation about his future.