A Mutually Agreed Exit
Carlo Ancelotti has officially confirmed he will leave Real Madrid at the end of the LaLiga season and begin his role as head coach of the Brazil national team on May 26. Speaking ahead of Madrid’s league clash against Mallorca, Ancelotti emphasized that the decision was mutual and respectful.
“Football, like life, is an adventure that begins and ends,” Ancelotti said. “When you arrive at Real Madrid, you know that one day it’s over.”
The veteran manager made clear he remains committed to finishing strong with Los Blancos before making the shift to international football.
Why the Departure Wasn’t Announced Sooner
While the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) announced Ancelotti’s appointment earlier this week, Real Madrid have yet to release an official statement.
“Madrid will publish a statement when they want to,” Ancelotti said. “There’s no problem there. They’ll do it when it’s the right time for Real Madrid.”
Madrid’s Season Falters
Ancelotti’s announcement comes amid growing scrutiny over Real Madrid’s trophyless season. A 4–3 loss to Barcelona in El Clásico last Sunday left Madrid seven points behind in the title race with only three games remaining.
With exits from the Champions League and Copa del Rey, Madrid are likely to finish the season without a major trophy for the first time since Ancelotti’s return in 2021.
“Maybe it was the time for a change, that’s all. It’s a mutual decision. I couldn’t be Real Madrid coach forever.”
Xabi Alonso Set to Succeed Ancelotti
Real Madrid are expected to appoint Xabi Alonso as their next head coach. The former Madrid midfielder has just completed an undefeated Bundesliga campaign with Bayer Leverkusen and confirmed he will leave the German club at season’s end.
“I have a lot of affection for Xabi Alonso,” Ancelotti said. “He has all the tools to be a great coach.”
Club sources indicate they hope to have Alonso in place before the start of the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States next month.
Ancelotti’s Legacy in Madrid
Ancelotti’s second spell at Real Madrid included notable success — a Champions League title, a LaLiga crown, and multiple Club World Cup triumphs. Though the 2024–25 campaign fell short of expectations, his legacy remains strong.
“There’s no discomfort. If I didn’t have to give this news conference today, it would be a fantastic day,” he added. “I have to explain things I don’t want to explain, and because I respect this shirt, I can’t.”
LaLiga Standings – Top 5
|
Position |
Club |
Games Played |
Points |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Barcelona |
35 |
82 |
|
2 |
Real Madrid |
35 |
75 |
|
3 |
Atlético Madrid |
35 |
70 |
|
4 |
Athletic Club |
35 |
64 |
|
5 |
Villarreal |
35 |
61 |
Next Fixture
Match: Real Madrid vs. Mallorca
Date: May 14, 2025
Kickoff: TBD
Carlo Ancelotti’s farewell from Real Madrid won’t be defined by silverware — but by transition, mutual respect, and a legacy that now extends into international football with Brazil.
