Carlo Ancelotti Confirms Real Madrid Exit and Comments on Xabi Alonso Appointment
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has officially confirmed that he will leave the club at the end of the 2024/25 season. Speaking at a press conference ahead of the match against Mallorca, Ancelotti described his departure as a natural part of the professional cycle and expressed satisfaction with his time at the club.
"Life ends — imagine just a period at a club. It’s the right moment for change. I’m satisfied with what we’ve achieved here, and I leave with gratitude," said Ancelotti.
What’s Next for Ancelotti?
The Italian coach, who has led Real Madrid to 15 trophies, including three UEFA Champions League titles, will officially take over as head coach of the Brazil national team on May 26, 2025. He will become the first foreign manager in the history of the Seleção, marking a historic shift for Brazilian football.
Xabi Alonso to Take Over at Real Madrid
Following Ancelotti’s departure, Xabi Alonso will assume the role of Real Madrid’s new head coach. He has signed a three-year contract with the club and will be officially presented on June 1, 2025. His first challenge will come just two weeks later, when he leads the team at the FIFA Club World Cup, kicking off on June 14 in the United States.
Ancelotti expressed full confidence in Alonso’s appointment:
“Real Madrid is in good hands. Xabi is intelligent, respected, and well-prepared. He knows the club and understands what it means to work here.”
The two previously worked together when Alonso was a player under Ancelotti’s management — a connection the Italian clearly values.
Xabi Alonso’s Coaching Rise
Alonso arrives after a historic stint at Bayer Leverkusen, where he led the German club to:
- Their first-ever Bundesliga title,
- A German Cup victory,
- And a place in the UEFA Europa League final.
In Madrid, he’s expected to implement tactical systems based on 5-3-2 or 4-4-2 formations, with a focus on dynamic attacking play involving stars like Vinícius Júnior and Kylian Mbappé. Alonso has reportedly requested reinforcements in defense, with interest in players such as Trent Alexander-Arnold and Martín Zubimendi.
With Ancelotti’s legendary tenure coming to a close, Real Madrid enters a new era under Alonso — one that blends deep club tradition with fresh managerial energy. All eyes now turn to how the former midfield maestro will guide Los Blancos into the future.
Published by Patrick Jane
13.05.2025