Carlo Ancelotti’s future at Real Madrid is uncertain after the team’s Champions League exit. The Italian manager’s contract runs until 2026, but he’s rumored to be leaving as early as April. According to Sky Sports, Ancelotti might depart after the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona on April 26.
The pressure on Ancelotti has grown after the team’s loss to Arsenal and slipping four points behind league leaders Barcelona. The Italian coach is a top target for the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) to replace Dorival Júnior. CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues has been keen on Ancelotti, but negotiations with Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus were prioritized until now.
Ancelotti’s Potential Exit Sparks Succession Speculation
If Ancelotti leaves Real Madrid, Santiago Solari is tipped to take over as interim manager. Solari has past ties to the club, having played for them from 2000/01 to 2004/05 and managed the team for 31 games in the 2018/19 season. However, for a long-term solution, Real Madrid is considering two names: Xabi Alonso and Jurgen Klopp.
Xabi Alonso has been linked to Real Madrid for some time. The Bayer Leverkusen manager has not confirmed his future beyond the current season. Bild reports that Alonso has a verbal agreement with Real Madrid, allowing him to join the club for over €10 million. However, Alonso’s chances are reportedly dwindling.
Jurgen Klopp is emerging as a strong contender to succeed Ancelotti. The German coach is currently Red Bull’s sporting director but is open to returning to management for the right project. According to Sport and UOL Esporte, Klopp is looking for a challenge where he has full control and can win titles. Real Madrid sees Klopp as a breath of fresh air tactically and in terms of squad management.
The Brazilian Football Confederation is eager to hire a new coach by June, ahead of World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay. If Ancelotti joins Brazil, the CBF will need to move quickly to find a replacement. Real Madrid’s potential successors are being closely watched, with Xabi Alonso and Jurgen Klopp being considered for the top job.