Carlo Ancelotti’s Future at Real Madrid in Doubt Amid Pressure from Brazil and Poor UCL Showing
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti is facing mounting uncertainty about his future at the Santiago Bernabéu following his side’s underwhelming performance against Arsenal in their UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash. The Italian tactician, known for his calm demeanor and vast experience is now at the center of intense speculation, with reports suggesting he may need a “miracle” to stay on as head coach next season.
Spanish media were quick to cast doubt on Ancelotti’s future, with headlines in Madrid on Thursday morning highlighting the pressure mounting on the veteran coach. Real Madrid’s failure to assert dominance against Arsenal has only intensified calls for change, with some viewing the current campaign as the end of a successful but now faltering cycle under Ancelotti.
Speaking after the match, Ancelotti did little to quiet the rumors, stating cryptically: I know, and I don’t want to know, when questioned about his job security — a statement that has since sparked widespread debate among fans and pundits alike.
Ancelotti’s chances of remaining at the helm appear to rest on two key objectives: beating fierce rivals Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final and overtaking them in the race for the La Liga title. Anything short of this could spell the end of his second stint as manager of the Spanish giants.
Beyond domestic competitions Real Madrid are also scheduled to participate in the expanded FIFA Club World Cup starting in mid-June. The tournament poses a dilemma for the club — whether to hold on to Ancelotti through the event or begin a new era beforehand. Appointing a new manager during the short window between seasons would be a logistical challenge.
Further complicating matters is the growing interest from the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), who have long viewed Ancelotti as their preferred candidate to lead the national team. According to Cadena SER, the CBF has set a deadline at the end of May for Ancelotti to commit to their project as Brazil prepares for critical South American World Cup qualifiers against Paraguay and Ecuador.
A CBF emissary, businessman Daniel Rodrigues — closely linked to the Brazilian footballing body — was reportedly in attendance during Real Madrid’s recent match against Arsenal, further underlining the seriousness of Brazil’s pursuit.
With just weeks remaining in the season, Ancelotti finds himself at a crossroads. He still has a year left on his Real Madrid contract, but the looming pressure from fans, management, and Brazil may force an early exit. The coming weeks will be decisive not only for the club’s silverware hopes but for Ancelotti’s legacy in Madrid.
Should he deliver major trophies, he may yet convince the board to retain his services. But if not, the Italian’s next destination may well be the Brazilian national team, ushering in a new chapter in one of football’s most illustrious managerial careers.