Carlo Ancelotti’s second tenure at the helm of Real Madrid is reportedly drawing to a close as he prepares to assume the reins of a major international side. While his contract with Los Blancos runs until 2026, sources at The Athletic suggest a decision has been rendered regarding his future.
Madrid recently endured a 3-2 defeat to arch-rivals Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final, following an exit from the Champions League at the hands of Arsenal earlier in the month. Currently, they trail Barcelona by four points in LaLiga with five fixtures remaining, marking the final chapter of Ancelotti’s illustrious spell at the Bernabeu.
The Brazilian national team is said to be fervently working to secure Ancelotti’s services, with negotiations reportedly underway to install him at the helm once the domestic campaign concludes. Notably, Ancelotti will not oversee Madrid during this summer’s Club World Cup.
Diego Fernandes, an intermediary representing the Brazilian FA, has been a frequent visitor to Spain in recent months, reportedly holding discussions with Ancelotti about succeeding Dorival Junior, who was dismissed following a humbling 4-1 defeat to Argentina in World Cup qualifying last month.
Former Real Madrid star and current Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso is being tipped as a potential successor to the 65-year-old Italian at the Bernabeu.
Sources close to the dealings highlight Fernandes’ ‘tactful and diplomatic’ efforts to orchestrate an early release for Ancelotti, a gesture that would symbolise respect between the coach and Real Madrid president, Florentino Perez, rather than any fractious relations.
Asked about his future after Saturday’s final, Ancelotti remarked, “I could remain at Real Madrid or perhaps leave; we shall see. It’s a matter for the coming weeks, not today.”
With Ancelotti’s eyes set on the international stage, Real Madrid fans will eagerly await the club’s next move as they prepare for life beyond one of football’s most distinguished managers.
READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS: