La Liga: Real Madrid Bids Farewell to Carlo Ancelotti as Xabi Alonso Awaits Arrival

Real Madrid Bids Farewell to Carlo Ancelotti as Xabi Alonso Awaits Arrival

Real Madrid has officially announced the departure of head coach Carlo Ancelotti, marking the end of a historic chapter at the club. Ancelotti, who is set to take over as the head coach of the Brazil national team, will lead Los Blancos for one final time at the Santiago Bernabéu this weekend before handing over the reins — reportedly to Bayer Leverkusen’s Xabi Alonso.

Though Real Madrid hasn’t formally unveiled Alonso as Ancelotti’s successor, all signs point to the former Madrid midfielder stepping in after his exceptional campaign with Leverkusen, where he led the German side to an unbeaten domestic season and a German Cup triumph.

Speaking ahead of his farewell match against Real Sociedad, Ancelotti offered warm words for Alonso:
“Xabi is the first to come after me, and I wish him all the luck in the world. He’s got what it takes to lead this club — I hope he enjoys every moment of it,” Ancelotti said during his press conference.

Ancelotti’s departure marks the end of a glorious era. Over two separate spells at Madrid, he spent six seasons in charge and guided the team to an astonishing 15 trophies. His achievements include three UEFA Champions League titles (2014, 2022, 2024), two La Liga championships, and two Copa del Rey victories.

The 65-year-old Italian admitted emotions will run high during his final match at the Bernabéu.

“I get emotional very easily — it runs in the family,” he said. “Tomorrow will be a very special day. I won’t hide my feelings if I tear up — it’ll be a beautiful goodbye.”

Saturday’s game will also serve as a farewell for veteran midfielder Luka Modrić, who will leave after the upcoming Club World Cup in the U.S. Ancelotti paid tribute to the Croatian maestro:
“Luka has been a crucial part of this era. A legend. Sharing this farewell with him makes it even more meaningful.”

In a heartfelt letter shared on social media, Ancelotti described his relationship with Real Madrid as “eternal,” saying:
“These years have been unforgettable — full of pride, trophies, and passion. I’ll carry every moment in my heart.”

Real Madrid officially acknowledged Ancelotti’s departure earlier Friday, one year before his contract was set to expire. Club president Florentino Pérez praised the outgoing manager for both his achievements and his embodiment of the club’s values:
“Carlo Ancelotti is and always will be a legend of Real Madrid and world football. He’s left a lasting mark, and we are honoured to have shared so much success with him.”

Ancelotti’s legacy includes five Champions League titles — two with AC Milan and three with Real Madrid — making him the most successful manager in the competition’s history.

As the curtain falls on Ancelotti’s Real Madrid story, all eyes now turn to Xabi Alonso, the man tasked with continuing the club’s winning tradition.

Source News
Punch

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