By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Carlo Ancelotti, the Italian coach of Real Madrid, has openly acknowledged that his future at the club may be uncertain.
In a candid statement, he suggested that his tenure could end as soon as “tomorrow,” while expressing his deep gratitude to the club, no matter when his time comes to a close.
The 65-year-old’s comments come after Madrid suffered a crushing defeat in the Champions League quarterfinals, losing 5-1 on aggregate to Arsenal.
The performance was a far cry from the team that dominated European football in recent years, winning the prestigious competition twice in the last three seasons.
Ancelotti, whose contract at the Bernabeu runs through 2026, remained philosophical about his future, he stated .
“It could be this year, next year when my contract expires… There’s no issue. But whenever it ends, I will always be thankful to this club. Whether it’s tomorrow, in one year, or in ten years, my gratitude will remain unchanged.”
He also reflected on the Champions League defeat to Arsenal, saying, “Arsenal were simply the better team. We gave our best, but perhaps the overturned penalty was a crucial moment that shifted things. Arsenal defended brilliantly, and we struggled to find space. Although we increased our intensity, it wasn’t enough.”
Meanwhile, there is growing speculation about a potential move for Ancelotti to coach the Brazilian national team.
According to sources, Brazilian businessman Diego Fernandes is working to facilitate a deal. Fernandes, who has close ties with both Ancelotti and the Brazilian Football Federation (CBF), is said to play a key role in these efforts.
The Brazilian team has been without a coach since March, when they dismissed Dorival Junior following a disappointing 4-1 defeat to Argentina.
With important World Cup qualifiers against Paraguay and Ecuador looming in June, the CBF is under pressure to secure a new manager soon.
Despite Ancelotti’s ongoing contract with Real Madrid, he has been a prime target for Brazil since last year’s Copa America, alongside other candidates like Jorge Jesus, who currently manages Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia.
Ancelotti’s future at Real Madrid, however, is still up in the air, as the club has reportedly considered alternative options for the post, including former player Xabi Alonso, who currently manages Bayer Leverkusen.
As Ancelotti faces this period of uncertainty, the football world will be watching closely to see whether the legendary manager stays at Madrid or moves on to lead Brazil on the global stage.
