Carlo Ancelotti has acknowledged that Real Madrid may opt to part ways with him following their elimination from the Champions League at the hands of Arsenal.
The reigning European champions were knocked out in the quarter-finals after a 2-1 loss at home, with Arsenal advancing 5-1 on aggregate. The defeat marked Madrid’s 12th loss of the season — a sharp contrast to just two defeats in the entire previous campaign.
“It’s possible the club decides to make a change — this year or next when my contract ends. It’s no problem,” Ancelotti told reporters after the match. “Whenever I leave, whether it’s tomorrow or in a year, I’ll only have words of gratitude for the club.”
Speculation around Ancelotti’s future has intensified, with former Real Madrid midfielder and current Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso linked to the job. Former Liverpool boss Jürgen Klopp has also been mentioned as a potential successor.
Despite the setback, Ancelotti stressed that Madrid remain contenders for silverware in La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Club World Cup later this year.
“The players gave everything in terms of attitude,” he said. “Arsenal defended very well, and we struggled to find space. We had more intensity, but unfortunately, it wasn’t enough.”
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