The Carlo Ancelotti (66) era is coming to an end.
Spain's 'Relevo' reported on the 22nd (Korean time) that "Carlo Ancelotti, the manager of Real Madrid, could head to the Brazil national team in June after the Copa del Rey final against FC Barcelona."
According to the report, there is a high possibility that Ancelotti will take over the Brazil national team starting with the matches against Ecuador and Paraguay during the A-match period in June. In this case, Real Madrid would participate in the FIFA Club World Cup held in the United States starting June 18 without Ancelotti.
This perspective is not merely speculation but stems from specific and practical movements by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF). According to Relevo, a CBF official recently visited Madrid and met with Ancelotti directly, where they discussed the transfer rumors seriously.
The CBF has long aimed for Ancelotti as a successor to coach Dorival Junior, and even though he declined in 2023, the federation's president Ednaldo Rodrigues has continually sought contact.
This time, the situation is different. The CBF wants to appoint Ancelotti early to ensure a stable qualification for the 2026 North and Central America World Cup and prepare for the tournament, which is one year away.
Relevo explained that "Ancelotti is not entirely negative about the situation either. He maintains a stance of not requesting a direct separation but is reportedly open to a 'mutual agreement' with the club."
Consequently, locals in Spain foresee that "Real Madrid may negotiate with Ancelotti after the Copa del Rey final to proceed with a separation." If this scenario unfolds, Real Madrid will finish Ancelotti's tenure following the La Liga final match against Real Sociedad on May 25.
However, there are variables. If Real Madrid suffers a crushing defeat or a dramatic exit in the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona, there is a possibility that the club will make an early decision.
The atmosphere within Real is one of deep respect for the manager. Unlike in 2015, they do not plan to send him off quietly. Relevo reported that "Real Madrid is preparing an exit fitting for Ancelotti, who has led the club to the most championships in its history."
Meanwhile, Real views Xabi Alonso as the only viable candidate for the next manager position. Currently leading Bayer 04 Leverkusen, Alonso has a 'gentleman's agreement' with the club, leaving no significant obstacles for a transfer.
Ultimately, the timing and announcement of the managerial change may vary depending on Real's results at the end of this season, but Ancelotti's departure and Alonso's era are gradually becoming a reality.
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