Carlo Ancelotti has decided to step down as Real Madrid’s head coach at the end of the current season, despite having a contract until 2026.
The Italian manager, who has enjoyed tremendous success during his second stint at the club, has made up his mind to close this chapter, even if the season concludes with titles and the club urges him to stay.
As reported by Radioestadio Noche on Onda Cero on Monday, Ancelotti is determined to move on next summer.
The coach, who renewed his contract in December 2023 amid speculation about his potential move to manage the Brazilian national team, has added significantly to his legacy at Real Madrid.
Under his guidance, the club has secured two La Liga titles, two UEFA Champions League trophies, a Copa del Rey, Super Cups of Spain and Europe, and a FIFA Club World Cup during this second tenure.
These recent triumphs only add to Ancelotti’s storied history with the club, including leading Real Madrid to their long-awaited “La Décima” Champions League title in Lisbon during his first tenure.
His contract renewal in late 2023 surprised many, as it was widely believed that his era at the club might be coming to an end, especially with the Brazilian Football Federation openly courting him and delaying their coaching decision in hopes of securing him.
Despite the successful renewal and a historic double in June 2024, Ancelotti is now certain about his decision to leave Madrid.
The report said, “Ancelotti is aware that continuing beyond each season, despite having a valid contract, does not solely depend on him. Nevertheless, he has decided to leave at the end of the current season, even if titles are won and the club insists he stays.
“’Even if the season ends with titles and the club insists on fulfilling the contract, I want to close my stage at Real Madrid this summer,’ sources close to the coach shared.”