Real Madrid confirm Carlo Ancelotti departure

Real Madrid have officially announced the departure of Carlo Ancelotti as Los Blancos move closer to finalising a deal for Xabi Alonso to take over as head coach.

The club’s disappointing season ended trophyless, despite pre-season expectations that Madrid would challenge for multiple honours.

Consequently, club president Florentino Perez and the senior management recognised the need for a change on the touchline.

Ancelotti’s exit had been anticipated ever since their Champions League elimination by Arsenal last month.

Madrid have now formally confirmed that Ancelotti will leave the club this weekend, departing as the most successful manager in the club’s history.

The Italian coach led Los Blancos to three Champions League titles, three Club World Cups, three European Super Cups, two La Liga titles, two Copa del Rey trophies, and two Spanish Super Cups across six seasons spanning two separate stints.

Speaking to club media, Real Madrid president Perez said: “Carlo Ancelotti is now forever part of the great Real Madrid family.

“We are proud to have enjoyed a coach who has helped us achieve so many successes and who has also represented the values of our club in an exemplary manner.”

The 15-time European champions are poised to appoint Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso, who guided Die Werkself to the 2023/24 Bundesliga title.