Carlo Ancelotti’s future at Real Madrid has become the subject of intense speculation, with recent developments adding layers of complexity to the narrative.
Despite a contract running until 2026, Ancelotti’s position appears increasingly uncertain.
Reports indicate that Real Madrid has decided not to participate in the upcoming Club World Cup with an interim coach, suggesting a preference for a permanent managerial solution.
This stance complicates Ancelotti’s potential move to the Brazilian national team, as the Confederation Brasileira de Futebol (CBF) had anticipated his immediate availability for upcoming fixtures.
However, negotiations between Ancelotti and the CBF did not involve Real Madrid, leading to an unexpected refusal from the Italian coach to depart.
Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid: When the Cracks Began To Show
Ancelotti’s recent track record at Real Madrid might look impressive on paper, but a closer inspection reveals why his future continues to be questioned – even after delivering silverware.
The 2023/24 season was undeniably successful by traditional standards. A league title and a Champions League crown would usually be enough to silence critics.
But for many fans, those trophies papered over deeper tactical issues. Ancelotti made several questionable calls throughout the campaign.
Real Madrid were winning, yes – but it wasn’t tactical brilliance led by the Italian. Individual brilliance is mostly what carried them through more than a few tight moments.
Many supporters celebrated the success while still voicing a clear message: the team needed modernisation, and Ancelotti might not be the man to lead it.
All Good Things Must Come to an End
That underlying concern has only grown louder during the 2024/25 campaign. Madrid have looked a step behind their rivals, both tactically and physically.
Barcelona got their act together and are the favourites to win the league title, and Atletico have been resurgent, although trailing behind.
On the European front, a quarter-final exit against Arsenal in the UEFA Champions League exposed Madrid’s predictability against higher-quality opposition. Add to that a Copa del Rey final loss to Barcelona, and the pressure is suddenly magnified.
This time, there’s no double to shield Ancelotti.
The tactical shortcomings that were tolerated during a trophy-winning campaign are now fully exposed in a season where the margins are tighter and everyone else has caught up.
For a club that prides itself on evolution and dominance, standing still is falling behind – and under Ancelotti, it’s starting to feel like Real Madrid have stopped moving forward.
Who, and What’s Next?
Xabi Alonso, currently at Bayer Leverkusen, is reportedly being considered as Ancelotti’s successor. However, he will be joining after the FIFA Club World Cup, according to reports.
Alonso has led Leverkusen to significant successes, including a Bundesliga title and a DFB Pokal triumph.
Real Madrid’s interest in Alonso aligns with their long-term vision, and discussions about potential player acquisitions have already taken place.
As the season progresses, Ancelotti’s future remains in flux. While he has recently expressed a commitment to Real Madrid, external factors and the club’s strategic planning may influence the final decision.
“I like Carlo Ancelotti as a manager and as a person, but he does have some responsibility for the failure of Real Madrid so far this season with his tactics.
“He has had injuries, but the team hasn’t looked balanced from the start which could be down to Fiorentino Perez who makes the signings.
“But overall Ancelotti has won the Champions League, La Liga, everything he could’ve won. I think it is time to leave the club and enjoy time with his family, especially because of his age.” – Emmanuel Petit speaking to Poker Firma.
The coming weeks will be pivotal in determining whether Ancelotti continues at the helm or if a new era under Alonso begins.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / Alberto Gardin
Recording Date: 23.04.2025