Title: Ancelotti Speaks Openly About His Planned Departure from Real Madrid
Title: Ancelotti Speaks Openly About His Planned Departure from Real Madrid
At a recent press conference, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti addressed speculation about his future at the club beyond this season. Rumors have circulated that he won't see out his contract, which runs until mid-2026, and will depart at the conclusion of the current campaign. While addressing these rumors, Ancelotti clarified his stance.
Various sources, including Onda Cero, reported that Ancelotti would not stay past this season. When asked about these reports during a pre-match press conference before the Salzburg game, Ancelotti made it clear that he has no control over his departure date. "I want to be very clear. The date of departure from this club will never be decided by me, never in my life," he said.
However, Ancelotti's relationship with the fans remains strong. Despite harsh criticism in the press and some whistles from fans following Madrid's Spanish Super Cup final loss to FC Barcelona, Ancelotti maintains that he feels "very loved by the fans" and "also at the media level." He remains committed to his role, stating, "Sometimes it's a little exaggerated, but I want to be objective and continue along my line."
Madrid's offensive performance has been impressive, scoring nine goals in the last two matches. Ancelotti is pleased with the team's progress, acknowledging, "Offensively we are getting good performances with goals and play." However, he stresses the need for improvement in defense, stating, "Defensively we have to improve a lot. It will be the key to success."
Real Madrid's chances of advancing to the top category of the league phase are slim, and they are likely to head to the playoffs to try and qualify for the UCL last 16. Regardless, Ancelotti remains focused, saying, "If we have any [chance], it's to win the two remaining games. If we play in the playoff tie, we will do our best, but we are used to the demanding schedule."
As for his contract, Ancelotti's clear intention is to stay as long as club president Florentino Perez wants him to. In a January 22, 2025, interview, Ancelotti emphasized his desire to continue working with the club until 2026, when his contract expires[1]. However, conflicting reports suggest that Ancelotti might choose to leave at the end of the season[2][3]. The situation remains uncertain, and only time will tell which reports hold more weight.
Ancelotti's contract with Real Madrid extends until mid-2026, but there have been rumors about his potential departure at the end of the current season. During a pre-match press conference against RB Salzburg, Ancelotti pointed out that the decision regarding his departure is not in his hands. Despite the speculation, Ancelotti expressed his love for the club's fans and media, assuring that he is committed to his role, regardless of the occasional criticism.