Carlo Ancelotti is reportedly set to leave Real Madrid at the end of April, with Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso expected to take over as manager at the Bernabeu, according to a fresh report from The Athletic’s David Ornstein.
The decision follows Real Madrid’s disappointing Champions League exit at the hands of Arsenal, losing 5-1 on aggregate in the quarter-finals. With Los Blancos also trailing Barcelona in the La Liga title race, the club hierarchy appears ready to make a change.
Ancelotti is expected to take charge of one final game — the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona on April 26 — before stepping down as head coach. The Italian has always insisted he would only leave if the club made that decision, and that now seems to be the case.
Xabi Alonso to Replace Ancelotti at Real Madrid?
According to Ornstein, Real Madrid have already approached former midfielder Xabi Alonso, who has guided Bayer Leverkusen to an unbeaten domestic double this season. The Spanish tactician has quickly become one of Europe’s most in-demand coaches since taking over in 2022.
Club officials reportedly see Alonso as the ideal long-term successor to Ancelotti and want the managerial handover completed ahead of this summer’s FIFA Club World Cup.
Ancelotti to Become Brazil’s Next Manager?
While Ancelotti’s Real Madrid exit is not yet official, his next destination may already be lined up. Reports suggest the Brazilian Football Confederation have identified the Italian as their top target to lead the Seleção into the 2026 World Cup.
With Dorival Junior dismissed in March, Brazil are actively seeking a high-profile replacement, and Ancelotti is said to favour the move over staying in a backroom role at Madrid.
What’s Next for Real Madrid and Ancelotti?
With a Copa del Rey final and a potential managerial transition looming, Real Madrid face a pivotal few weeks. Whether Ancelotti ends his time in Madrid with a trophy or not, the next chapter could see him take charge of one of international football’s most iconic teams.
Stay tuned to trndr for all the latest updates on Real Madrid, Carlo Ancelotti, and the future of Xabi Alonso.
