Speculation is rife over Carlo Ancelotti's future as head coach of Real Madrid, as rumors caution his imminent departure from the club. The Italian tactician, who boasts one of the most decorated coaching careers, is reportedly eyeing posts at both AS Roma and the Brazilian national team, creating anticipation around his successor.
This season has been emblematic of ups and downs for Real Madrid, known for its resilience and star-studded roster. The team ranks second in La Liga, just behind Atlético Madrid, with 17 wins, four draws, and five losses over 26 matches. Yet, indications suggest Ancelotti's tenure might be nearing its close, heightening curiosity about the managerial succession.
According to reports from Fichajes, Ancelotti, age 65, has decided to step down at the end of the season. Currently, he’s focused on leading the team during the final stretch, which includes the FIFA Club World Cup. While his future hangs delicately between uncertainty and opportunity, Ancelotti realizes there could be multiple outcomes beyond the current season.
Speaking to Rai Radio 1, Ancelotti acknowledged, "I still have a two-year contract here, but contracts can be terminated or extended." The ambiguity surrounding his contract fuels discussions about who could step up to take his place, with notable names including Xabi Alonso and Santiago Solari being mentioned as potential candidates.
Xabi Alonso, who has emerged as one of the most promising coaches, currently manages Bayer Leverkusen and has enjoyed immense success, including winning the Bundesliga undefeated last season. His connection to Madrid as a former player equally enhances his standing as Ancelotti’s heir apparent.
Speculation surrounding Ancelotti’s potential departure is bolstered by interest from Roma, with their current head coach, Claudio Ranieri, reportedly identifying Ancelotti as the ideal successor for when they make changes this summer. Interestingly, Ranieri has currently been at Roma only on a temporary basis but is expected to leave by June 2025.
Although Ranieri confirmed to Tuttosport, "All the reports about me calling Carlo Ancelotti to become the next Roma manager are not true. These stories are wide of the mark," the Italian coach didn’t shy away from expressing his admiration for Ancelotti. Ancelotti himself responded with commendation for Ranieri's work, stating, "Ranieri is a friend, and he’s doing very well at Roma. I am very attached to the Giallorossi, where I always have fantastic memories, but there is a big difference between saying and doing." His diplomatic response reflects the intricacies of such football politics.
Aside from Roma, another challenge awaits, as Ancelotti faces speculation of shouldering the role of head coach for the Brazilian national team — which has long admired his leadership capabilities. Rumors have intensified following Brazil's World Cup performance, and many see Ancelotti as possessing the expertise to take Brazilian football to new heights.
With this swirling air of speculation, the management dynamics at Real Madrid could vastly change based on the decisions made over the coming months. It remains contingent on Ancelotti's performance as well as how the team finishes the current season.
The club’s decision makers may look to secure Alonso as Ancelotti’s successor with strategic long-term planning, though immediate changes depend largely on Ancelotti’s results and engagements. Both coaches are contracted until 2026, which aligns the timelines for potential transitions.
Whether Ancelotti ends his era at Real Madrid with the same legacy earned from previous clubs — Bayern Munich, Chelsea, PSG, Milan, and Juventus — depends on the outcome of future matches and the club’s ambition to stay competitive.
The looming question for Real Madrid supporters, players, and analysts alike is whether Ancelotti will part ways with the club at the season’s end, and if so, will Xabi Alonso be the one to lead the new era? The paths forward for both clubs are intertwined, molding the upcoming seasons of Spanish and European football.