Real Madrid will bid farewell to one of the most decorated managers in modern football, as Carlo Ancelotti prepares to step down at the end of the month and take over as the head coach of the Brazilian national team.
The 65-year-old Italian, affectionately known as ‘Don Carlo’, leaves the Santiago Bernabeu after a glittering second stint in charge, during which he delivered two LaLiga titles, two Copa del Rey trophies, and two Champions League triumphs. His total haul of 15 major trophies makes him one of the most successful coaches in Real Madrid’s storied history.
Ancelotti’s next destination is no less grand. Starting May 28, he will become the first Italian to manage the Brazil national team, leading the Selecao into their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign. His appointment brings an end to months of speculation about his future and sets up a new era for both club and country.
A Master at the Helm
Ancelotti’s return to Real Madrid in 2021 was met with a mix of excitement and skepticism. But the veteran tactician quickly reminded fans why he remains one of the most trusted minds in football. Under his watch, Real Madrid reclaimed domestic and European dominance, with his calm demeanor and tactical flexibility proving key to his success.
From nurturing young stars like Vinicius Jr. and Jude Bellingham to revitalizing veterans like Luka Modric and Toni Kroos, Ancelotti’s man-management was widely praised. His achievements also included guiding Madrid to a record-extending Champions League win in 2022, overcoming the likes of PSG, Chelsea, Manchester City, and Liverpool in a historic knockout run.
From Madrid to the Maracana
Now, Ancelotti turns his attention to a new challenge—the Brazilian national team. Brazil, five-time world champions, are eager to end their two-decade wait for a sixth World Cup title, and the CBF (Brazilian Football Confederation) believe Ancelotti is the right man to lead them.
He will take over from interim coach Fernando Diniz, who was placed in charge while Brazil waited for Ancelotti’s contract with Madrid to run its course. The Italian’s appointment is seen as a bold and strategic move aimed at restoring Brazil’s global dominance with a calm, experienced figurehead.
Alonso Ready to Return
As Ancelotti departs, Real Madrid are already preparing to welcome a familiar face back to the capital. Xabi Alonso, a former player and fan favorite at the club, is poised to become the new head coach. The 42-year-old Spaniard has reportedly agreed to a three-year deal and is expected to lead the team during their Club World Cup campaign in June.
Alonso’s managerial credentials have skyrocketed after an impressive spell at Bayer Leverkusen, where he won the Bundesliga for the first time in the club’s history. His tactical approach, calm leadership, and experience as a top-level midfielder have drawn comparisons to some of the best young coaches in world football.
Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid, here we go! Story confirmed and deal sealed for Xabi as new manager until 2028.
Staff sorted, contract in place and three year deal for Alonso with Real planning for him to start at FIFA Club World Cup.
Ancelotti farewell soon, then Xabi era. ️ pic.twitter.com/s6jY4DzZmx
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 12, 2025
The Basque-born tactician is no stranger to the Bernabeu, having played for Madrid between 2009 and 2014. During his time there, Alonso won a LaLiga title, two Copa del Reys, and the 2014 Champions League under none other than Ancelotti. Though suspended for the final, his role in that campaign was pivotal, and his bond with the Italian is one of mutual respect.
A Seamless Transition
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has long admired Alonso’s footballing brain and leadership qualities, and his appointment is part of a wider strategy to modernize the club’s future while respecting its traditions.
With a young and talented squad already in place, including stars like Bellingham, Rodrygo, and Eduardo Camavinga, Alonso inherits a team that is not just built to compete now, but one ready to dominate for years to come. His challenge will be to maintain the high standards set by Ancelotti while imprinting his own tactical philosophy on the team.
Meanwhile, Ancelotti’s task is equally monumental. Leading Brazil at a World Cup is a pressure few managers in the sport will ever experience. But if anyone is equipped to handle the expectations of an entire football-mad nation, it is the unflappable Italian.
Ancelotti’s departure and Alonso’s arrival mark the end of one era and the beginning of another at Real Madrid. For fans of Los Blancos and Brazil alike, the future promises to be just as compelling as the past.
READ NEXT:
