Carlo Ancelotti has officially drawn the curtain on his time as Real Madrid manager, delivering a heartfelt and reflective press conference ahead of his final game in charge.
As he prepares to move on to his next challenge with the Brazilian national team, the Italian coach took a moment to express his gratitude for the years spent guiding the Spanish giants, while offering his full support to incoming manager Xabi Alonso.
Speaking at Valdebebas, Ancelotti made it clear that he sees Alonso as the ideal figure to take the reins at Madrid. “Xabi Alonso will be the first [to follow], and I wish him all the luck in the world. He has the quality to coach Real Madrid,” Ancelotti affirmed. “Let him enjoy it, that’s the most important advice I can give.”
Ancelotti, who first joined Real Madrid in 2013 and returned in 2021, leaves behind an impressive legacy that includes multiple Champions League titles and league trophies.
He described the end of his tenure as “emotional but joyful,” emphasizing that his years at the club were filled with fond memories, unity, and success. “We’ve had a great time,” he said. “I’ve coached spectacular players, and we achieved a lot.”
The veteran manager acknowledged the natural evolution of the squad, citing the departures of icons like Cristiano Ronaldo, Casemiro, and now Luka Modrić. Yet he was quick to point out that Real Madrid’s identity and success will persist. “Generations must come to an end, but the club continues and will always be the best in the world,” he noted.
As he prepares to take charge of Brazil, Ancelotti said he feels proud to leave Madrid without betraying its legacy. “I’m not going to another club. I’m going to the national team with the most history. That’s a challenge I’m looking forward to,” he shared.
The move allows him to close his club chapter on his own terms, ending his managerial career in club football at the pinnacle. Despite his achievements, Ancelotti remained humble about his legacy. He expressed no regrets, acknowledging his mistakes with a smile, and said he hoped people would remember him as a good person above all.
“I’m not just a coach, I’m a person who coached,” he concluded.
