In Barcelona, attention is building around the possibility of Xabi Alonso taking a prominent coaching role as speculation suggests he could be in line to succeed Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid. This follows the recent announcement from Alonso about his departure from Bayer Leverkusen. Ancelotti, renowned for his tenure at several top clubs, acknowledged Alonso’s strong coaching credentials during a pre-game press conference, praising the former midfielder’s achievements in the Bundesliga.
Ancelotti remarked on Alonso’s success at Bayer Leverkusen, noting his impressive contribution to the club’s triumph in the German league the previous season. “I read that Xavi is leaving Bayer Leverkusen, where he did a fantastic job,” Ancelotti commented. “He has all the doors open because he has shown that he is one of the best coaches in the world.”
Despite mounting speculation around his successor, Ancelotti stayed tight-lipped about his own future, focusing instead on the immediate challenge of facing Barcelona in an important La Liga fixture. With Madrid trailing by four points, the team must secure a victory to maintain hopes of lifting a trophy this season.
Ancelotti expressed deep affection for Real Madrid, a club where he’s enjoyed two tenures contributing to an enduring legacy. Describing his relationship with the team as an endless “honeymoon,” he reflected on the emotional connection he has developed through his time there. “The honeymoon with this club never ends, it continues forever,” he shared.
Currently 65, Ancelotti is contracted with Real Madrid until the next season. However, rumors persist about a potential departure following a season that did not meet expectations, despite the high-profile acquisition of Kylian Mbappé. In addition, there are ongoing discussions about Ancelotti potentially taking over for the Brazil national team, a prospect that has been in development for over a year.