Carlo Ancelotti‘s second stint as Real Madrid manager has been a smashing success. Real Madrid are in the thick of things this season, and the Italian manager has won 10 crowns since his return in 2021. He has a good shot of winning even more trophies.
However, despite these achievements, there is uncertainty surrounding his future at the Santiago Bernabeu. Ancelotti has publicly expressed his desire to stay, but Real Madrid has reportedly set forth two conditions that will determine whether he remains in charge beyond the summer.
Under his guidance, the Whites have remained competitive in all major competitions. Currently, third in La Liga, Los Blancos are also in a strong position in the Champions League round of 16 and have reached the Copa del Rey semi-finals. Moreover, Madrid’s form in the league has been inconsistent, causing concern among the club’s hierarchy.
Since the start of the calendar year, they have slipped from first to third in the league standings and suffered a comprehensive defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup. Their most recent loss to Real Betis marked only one win in five league games, leaving them three points behind leaders Barcelona.
With this dip in form, speculation has intensified over whether Ancelotti will see out his contract, which runs until summer 2026. Meanwhile, reports have emerged that Xabi Alonso—currently managing Bayer Leverkusen—is being lined up as his successor. The main question now is when the Spaniard will take over, not if.
What did Ancelotti say about his future?
Amid growing uncertainty, the Italian tactician addressed his future during an interview on PoretCast di Giacomo Poretti. He emphasized that he has no intention of stepping down and that any decision about his departure rests solely with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez. “I don’t know when. I don’t decide. The only clear thing I know is that I don’t decide when I will leave, the president will. It will happen sooner or later.”
Despite the club’s recent struggles, the 65-year-old remains a revered figure among Los Blancos’ fans, and his departure would mark the end of an era. However, the decision regarding his future does not lie in his hands.
Real Madrid’s two conditions for Ancelotti to stay
According to The Athletic, Ancelotti plans to stay next season, but his future at Real Madrid hinges on two specific conditions: win La Liga or win the Champions League. If he secures either of these trophies, he will retain his position for at least another season. However, failure to meet this benchmark could see his tenure come to an abrupt end.
With Real Madrid still firmly in contention for both trophies, the remainder of the season will be crucial in determining the Italian’s fate. However, even if he succeeds, there remains a strong possibility that the club will push for Xabi Alonso’s appointment as early as next summer.
