By Charles Maduka
Carlo Ancelotti will oversee his final game as Real Madrid’s coach on Saturday, bringing an end to a historic tenure at the Spanish club. Speaking ahead of the match against Real Sociedad, Ancelotti extended his best wishes to his likely successor, Xabi Alonso, and confirmed his next move to coach Brazil’s national team.
Though Madrid has not officially announced Alonso’s appointment, the Bayer Leverkusen boss is widely expected to take over ahead of the Club World Cup. Ancelotti, who returns to international football, said Alonso is well-suited to manage the team.
“Xabi is the first to come after me, and I wish him all the luck in the world,” said Ancelotti. “He has the characteristics to coach this club—enjoy it.”
Alonso, a former Madrid midfielder, recently guided Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga title and a German Cup victory in 2024.
Ancelotti leaves after six seasons over two spells, collecting 15 trophies including three UEFA Champions League titles, two La Liga crowns, and two Copa del Rey trophies.
Speaking emotionally, the 65-year-old said Saturday would be a sentimental day for him. “I get emotional quickly—it’s in my DNA. I have no problem crying; it will be a beautiful day,” he said.
The game will also mark Luka Modric’s final appearance at the Bernabeu. Ancelotti praised the Croatian midfielder, calling him a legend and expressing pride in sharing the farewell with him.
In a heartfelt open letter posted online, Ancelotti described his connection with Real Madrid as “eternal,” thanking the club for unforgettable moments and the pride of representing its badge.
Real Madrid confirmed his departure a year before his contract ends. In a statement, the club thanked Ancelotti for his contributions and leadership, with president Florentino Perez hailing him as a “true legend.”
Ancelotti helped secure the club’s 10th Champions League title in 2014 during his first spell, before returning in 2021 to claim two more European titles in 2022 and 2024. With five Champions League trophies to his name—two with AC Milan and three with Madrid—Ancelotti is the most successful manager in the competition’s history.
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