Carlo Ancelotti has officially confirmed his departure from Real Madrid, with Xabi Alonso set to succeed him as head coach.
Ancelotti, who led the club to 15 trophies over two spells, including three UEFA Champions League titles, will take over as Brazil’s national team coach starting June 26, 2025. His final match at the Santiago Bernabéu is scheduled for Saturday against Real Sociedad.
In a heartfelt message to the media, Ancelotti expressed his deep connection to the club and its supporters. “I carry in my heart every moment experienced in this wonderful second spell as Real Madrid coach,” he wrote on social media.
“They’ve been unforgettable years, an incredible journey full of emotions, trophies and, above all, the pride of representing this badge… My bond with Real Madrid is eternal.”
Ancelotti also extended his best wishes to Alonso, who has been appointed as his successor.
“Xabi is the first (to come after me), I wish him all the luck in the world, because he is a coach who has the characteristics to coach this club, this team — enjoy it,” Ancelotti stated.
Alonso, 43, has enjoyed a successful managerial career, leading Bayer Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga title in 2024 and securing the German Cup. His appointment at Real Madrid is expected to be officially announced soon, with his tenure commencing on June 1, 2025.
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Alonso will be joined by his assistant Sebastián Parrilla and fitness coach Alberto Encinas, while current fitness coach Antonio Pintus may depart due to prior tensions with Ancelotti.
Saturday’s match will also mark the final appearance at the Santiago Bernabéu for midfielder Luka Modric, who is set to retire after the Club World Cup in the United States.
Ancelotti praised Modric as a “fantastic” and “legendary” player, sharing that saying goodbye alongside him felt “nice.”
As Ancelotti prepares for his emotional farewell, he acknowledged the significance of the occasion. “I have it in my genetics that I get emotional very quickly, because my grandfather did that, and my father too, so it will be a very emotional day tomorrow,” he said.
“I have no problem if I end up crying, no problem at all, I will not hide it in that sense. It will be a beautiful day.”
Real Madrid has expressed its gratitude to Ancelotti, with club president Florentino Pérez stating, “Carlo Ancelotti will forever be part of the great Madridista family.”
Ancelotti’s legacy at the club is cemented, and his departure ushers in a new era under the guidance of Xabi Alonso.