Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti extended his best wishes to Xabi Alonso, who is poised to take over his role, expressing “all the luck in the world” on Friday, just prior to his final match in charge at the club.
Bayer Leverkusen’s Alonso is anticipated to step into the managerial role as the Club World Cup approaches, although Madrid has yet to formally announce his appointment.
Ancelotti spoke to the media ahead of Saturday’s LaLiga clash at the Santiago Bernabeu against Real Sociedad, marking his last game before he transitions to managing the Brazil national team.
“I don’t want to give any advice since everyone has their own perspective on football,” Ancelotti remarked during the press conference.
“Xabi will be the first to follow me; I truly wish him all the best, as he possesses the qualities necessary to coach this club and this team—enjoy the experience.”
Alonso, a former Real Madrid midfielder now aged 43, led Bayer Leverkusen to a Bundesliga title in 2024 with an extraordinary unbeaten season, alongside clinching the German Cup.
In his two separate terms at the helm of Madrid, Ancelotti has amassed an impressive 15 trophies over six years.
During his tenure, he celebrated three Champions League victories along with two La Liga titles and two Copas del Rey.
Ancelotti mentioned that he anticipated an emotional farewell in his final match.
The 65-year-old acknowledged, “I tend to get emotional quickly—it’s in my genes, as my grandfather was the same, and my father too—so naturally, it will be a very emotional day tomorrow.”
“I won’t shy away from shedding a tear if it happens; I see no issue with that. It promises to be a beautiful day.”
Saturday will also serve as Luka Modric’s farewell at the Santiago Bernabeu, with the Croatian midfielder set to participate in the Club World Cup in the USA before parting ways with Madrid.
“I am sharing this moment with Luka,” Ancelotti said.
“He has been an extraordinary asset during this era at Real Madrid; he is fantastic—a true legend. It feels fitting to bid farewell alongside him.”
‘Eternal’ Connection
In addition, Ancelotti shared an open letter on social media to express his farewell, declaring that his connection with Real Madrid is “eternal.”
“I carry every moment from this incredible second term as Real Madrid coach in my heart,” Ancelotti wrote.
“These years have been unforgettable, a remarkable journey filled with emotions, trophies, and, above all, immense pride in representing this club…”
“My connection with Real Madrid is eternal.”
Real Madrid confirmed Ancelotti’s departure earlier on Friday, a year before his contract was set to expire, just two weeks after Brazil revealed that the Italian will take charge of their national team starting this summer.
“Our club expresses its gratitude and appreciation for a true legend of both Real Madrid and the global football community,” stated Los Blancos in an announcement.
“Carlo Ancelotti will forever be a valued member of the great Madridista family,” remarked Madrid president Florentino Perez.
“We are privileged to have had a coach who has guided us to immense success while exemplifying our club’s values in such an admirable way.”
Ancelotti was instrumental in securing Madrid’s 10th Champions League title in 2014 during his first spell at the club (2013-2015).
Returning in 2021, he led them to triumph in Europe’s premier competition in both 2022 and 2024.
With five Champions League titles to his name, including two with AC Milan, Ancelotti holds the record for the most titles won by a coach in the history of the tournament.
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