Carlo Ancelotti is expected to step down as Real Madrid manager following the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona on April 26. The 65-year-old Italian is likely to remain at the helm for the showpiece in Seville, but sources indicate that his departure from the Spanish giants will follow shortly after.
Ancelotti’s future was cast into doubt following Real Madrid’s crushing Champions League quarter-final exit at the hands of Arsenal. The Spanish side fell 2-1 at home on Wednesday night, sealing a heavy 5-1 aggregate defeat that raised questions about Ancelotti’s tenure. When asked about his position after the match, Ancelotti gave a candid response: “Maybe the club decides to replace me… that could be tomorrow, 10 days, one month or in one year. If my contract ends or doesn’t end, I really don’t care. I will be grateful to this club either way.”
Despite the uncertainty, Ancelotti will lead the team into the Copa del Rey final as Real Madrid and Barcelona battle not only for silverware, but also for domestic dominance. In LaLiga, Real currently trail their Catalan rivals by four points with seven matches left. However, Ancelotti is not expected to be in the dugout for the crucial El Clasico clash at Camp Nou on May 11, which could be decisive in the title race.
The Italian tactician, who returned to Real Madrid in the summer of 2021 for his second stint in charge, has enjoyed significant success, collecting 11 trophies including two LaLiga titles, two Champions League crowns, and the FIFA Club World Cup.
Now, he looks poised for a new chapter — with the Brazilian national team eager to bring him on board as their next head coach. Talks between Ancelotti and the Brazilian Football Confederation have reportedly progressed, and he could be confirmed in the role before the conclusion of the Spanish season.
As his legendary coaching career continues to evolve, Ancelotti appears ready to embrace a new challenge — and possibly cap off his time in Madrid with one final trophy.
