Real Madrid Confirms Ancelotti Departure, Alonso Expected to Take Over

Real Madrid has officially confirmed that manager Carlo Ancelotti is leaving the club. Sources suggest that former midfielder Xabi Alonso is the frontrunner to succeed him.

Ancelotti’s final match managing Los Blancos will be on Saturday against Real Sociedad, concluding their La Liga season.

The Italian manager’s departure follows a disappointing 2024–25 season where Madrid did not win any major trophies for the first time since 2021. The team is currently second in La Liga, trailing champions Barcelona.

Earlier this month, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) announced Ancelotti as the new head coach for Brazil’s national team. Real Madrid had previously refrained from commenting on his future until Friday’s announcement.

“Real Madrid C.F. and Carlo Ancelotti have agreed to conclude his tenure as Real Madrid manager,” the club declared in a formal statement.

“Our organization extends its gratitude and appreciation to one of Real Madrid’s and global football’s greatest figures,” the statement continued.

The club emphasized Ancelotti’s notable accomplishments, acknowledging him as the most successful manager in Real Madrid’s history.

“Carlo Ancelotti guided our squad through one of the most triumphant eras in our 123-year history, becoming the coach with the most titles: three European Cups, three Club World Cups, three UEFA Super Cups, two La Liga titles, two Copa del Rey titles, and two Spanish Super Cups, totaling 15 titles over six seasons,” the statement highlighted.

Madrid also revealed plans to honor Ancelotti during Saturday’s game at the Santiago Bernabéu.

“The Santiago Bernabéu will recognize him in Carlo Ancelotti’s final match as Real Madrid manager. Real Madrid extends best wishes to him and his family in this next chapter.”

Reports indicate that Xabi Alonso is expected to replace Ancelotti, having reportedly agreed to a three-year contract. Alonso recently departed Bayer Leverkusen, where he achieved significant success during his tenure in Germany.

He led Leverkusen to an undefeated season, securing a domestic double and solidifying his standing as a promising manager in Europe.