Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti is expected to leave the club following the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona on April 26, according to a report by Sky Sports. The veteran Italian tactician, who rejoined the club in 2021, could make way after a disappointing UEFA Champions League exit at the hands of Arsenal.
Ancelotti’s side suffered a 5-1 aggregate defeat in the quarterfinals, losing 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabéu. Following the elimination, the 65-year-old hinted at uncertainty over his future, saying: “Maybe the club decides to replace me… I will be grateful to this club. That could be tomorrow, 10 days, one month, or in one year.”
Sky Sports reports that the Copa del Rey final in Seville may be his final match in charge. With both Real Madrid and Barcelona chasing a domestic double — La Liga and Copa del Rey — Ancelotti’s possible departure could come before the next La Liga El Clasico clash.
Meanwhile, Brazil is reportedly keen to appoint Ancelotti as their new head coach. A well-connected businessman, Diego Fernandes, is believed to be playing a “highly strategic” role in facilitating the deal, though he has no official position with the Brazilian Football Federation (CBF). The South American giants have been without a permanent coach since Dorival Junior’s sacking in March.
During his illustrious stint with Los Blancos, Ancelotti has won two La Liga titles, three UEFA Champions League trophies, two Copa del Rey titles, and multiple other honours across his two terms at the club.
Former Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon told Sky Sports that while names like Xabi Alonso and Jürgen Klopp are being linked to the club, he hopes Ancelotti stays: “This bench is very difficult for any coach. It is an obligation to win, which is not possible all the time.”
Brazil’s next fixtures are scheduled for June, against Paraguay and Ecuador, in their ongoing qualification campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.