Outgoing Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti will leave the Spanish giants this summer but carry the unforgettable memories made during his two stints in charge of the club “very close” to his heart.
The end of an era
Ancelotti will leave Madrid and officially take charge of the Brazil national team on May 26, just one day after Real Madrid’s LaLiga season concludes.
His exit follows a dramatic 4-3 defeat to Barcelona in Sunday’s El Clasico, a result that all but confirmed a trophyless campaign for Los Blancos.
Despite the disappointing end to the season, the Italian gaffer will depart as the most decorated manager in Real Madrid’s storied history, having won 15 major trophies, including three Champions League titles.
During his penultimate pre-match press conference as Los Blancos boss an emotional Ancelotti said: “There have been some unforgettable years that I’ll carry dearly close to my heart.
“Football, like life itself, is full of adventures that begin but eventually have to end. I always knew that one day it would come to an end my time here at Real.
“It has been a wonderful period, which is coming to an end. A great time. But if even life comes to an end, imagine what it’s like when a period with a football team comes to an end.
“I’ve enjoyed it, and I want to finish it well. And then, on the 26th, I’ll talk about another challenge.”
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Who will Ancelotti’s replacement be?
It is widely expected that current Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso will be the next manager of the kings of European football – having himself announced his departure from the Bay Arena last week.
Quizzed about his successor, Ancelotti said: “I am very fond of [Alonso], I don’t have any advice for him because he has all the tools to be a great coach in the future.”
Reminiscing further about his hugely successful spells at the Spanish capital, the 65-year-old mused: “The day I arrived, if someone had told me I would win 11 titles in four years, I would have signed [for] it in blood.
“This season hasn’t gone well for many reasons. But it has been an unforgettable period.
“I couldn’t be Madrid coach for the rest of my life. It comes to an end for many reasons. The club may need a new impetus. I’m not making a big deal out of it.
“A thousand thanks to this club. And we’ll carry on. I’ll always be a Madrid fan. It’s the end of an era. Spectacular. I never thought I’d coach Madrid for six years, and now it’s happened.”
Olaoluwa is a dedicated sports writer and passionate football enthusiast with two years of experience. Known for his keen analysis and commitment to the game, his work reflects a deep love for football, blending strategic insight with the emotional moments that make it a global passion. He is focused on honing his skills and consistently aims to inspire and engage readers through every article he writes.
