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Despite signing a contract extension that runs until 2026, Carlo Ancelotti’s future at Real Madrid has come under scrutiny in recent weeks. The speculation intensified following the club's disappointing exit from the UEFA Champions League, sparking widespread rumors about a potential managerial change this summer.
Ancelotti, visibly frustrated with the swirling reports, has dismissed suggestions of a rift with club President Florentino Pérez or the Real Madrid board. “To say there is a confrontation between the club and me is misleading,” he said in a recent press conference. He further went on to say, “Florentino Perez is showing me even more support and love now than when things go well.”
Addressing the comments about their exit from the UCL, Ancelotti said, “Questioning a club that has won 30 titles in 11 years is just misleading to me”. Ancelotti dodged any questions about his future at the club being decided already and reiterated that this was a matter of discussion for the end of the season. He said, “We will evaluate the future at the end of the season, not now”. “Brazil? I don’t discuss my future now. Full focus on the two titles remaining,” he further added, addressing the links of him joining the Brazilian national team.
Who could potentially be Madrid’s manager for next season?
Regardless, Real Madrid remain contenders in La Liga and are gearing up for the Copa del Rey final, which has somewhat cooled the pressure on the veteran Italian coach. However, fans and pundits alike are already debating who could take the reins at the Bernabeu should Ancelotti’s tenure come to an end this summer.
One name leading the conversation is Xabi Alonso, the former Madrid midfielder who has enjoyed tremendous success with Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga. Under Alonso, Leverkusen have become title challengers, and his tactical acumen and strong connection to Madrid make him a fan favorite to return as manager.
