7 Reasons Carlo Ancelotti is Ditching Real Madrid for Brazil

Carlo Ancelotti’s departure from Real Madrid marks the end of an era for one of the most successful managers in the club's storied history. 

His exit, coming after a turbulent 2024-25 season, is set against a backdrop of mounting challenges for Madrid, including disappointing performances and the departure of key players.

Here are seven key reasons the legendary Italian manager, who is officially the most successful coach in the club’s history, is leaving Madrid to take over as the new boss of the Selecao as originally reported by The Athetic.

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Ancelotti leaves Madrid as the most decorated coach in the club’s history, having secured the Champions League title for a third time just a year ago. 

His achievements included guiding the team to victory in both La Liga and Europe during the 2023-24 season, a campaign that saw Madrid lose only twice and finish 10 points clear of Barcelona in the league.

 However, the 2024-25 season proved to be far less successful, with Madrid ending the year trophy-less and enduring a frustrating string of performances. This has been described as the "end of a cycle" for the club, with a sense of inevitability hanging over Ancelotti’s departure.

Behind the scenes, Madrid had already been preparing for this eventuality, with the club having explored potential successors like Xabi Alonso, the manager of Bayer Leverkusen and former Madrid player. 

Alonso, who has impressed with his coaching abilities, is expected to replace Ancelotti after the 2024-25 season, with a focus on the upcoming Club World Cup in June.

Ancelotti’s decision to leave for the Brazil national team was influenced by a long-standing desire to manage at the World Cup.

 Despite an ongoing contract with Madrid until 2026, he had been open to the idea of international management, and Brazil made their move earlier this year, securing him for the 2026 World Cup. 

His move to Brazil is set to begin on May 26, marking the end of a memorable but challenging tenure at Madrid.

The season has been a tough one for Ancelotti, with injury problems and squad imbalances playing a key role in the club's struggles. 

Major departures like Toni Kroos, Nacho, and Joselu have left gaps that were not adequately addressed in the transfer market, especially with the late arrival of Kylian Mbappé, who has failed to make the expected impact. 

Madrid’s defensive woes, exacerbated by key injuries and a lack of reinforcements, were evident throughout the season, and Ancelotti’s tactical approach came under scrutiny for not fully utilizing younger talents like Endrick and Arda Guler.

Adding to the tension, there were internal frustrations regarding Madrid’s lack of proactive moves in the transfer market, particularly regarding the defense.

 Despite Ancelotti’s calls for reinforcements, the club failed to make key signings during the summer and January windows. The failure to sign a right-back and centre-back highlighted the club’s reluctance to spend, even as the squad continued to struggle with injuries and tactical issues.

Ancelotti's relationship with the club's leadership, including president Florentino Pérez, remained a key factor throughout his tenure. 

Despite the mounting pressure from results and internal divisions, Ancelotti managed to maintain a working relationship with key figures like director of football Santiago Solari. 

However, the strain on the squad, particularly due to injuries and lack of tactical innovation, eventually contributed to the club’s decision to part ways.

As Ancelotti leaves Madrid to embark on his new chapter with Brazil, the club faces an uncertain future. Alonso’s expected arrival brings hope for a fresh approach, but Madrid’s ability to address its internal issues, including squad depth, tactical development, and leadership, will be key to its success in the post-Ancelotti era.

Though Ancelotti’s tenure will be remembered for major accomplishments, his final season highlights the inevitable challenges that come with the expiration of a footballing cycle. Real Madrid’s decision to shift direction marks the end of an era, with Xabi Alonso poised to lead the club into a new chapter.

As Ancelotti embarks on his new journey with Brazil, he leaves behind a Madrid squad in need of reinvention. His departure may signal the end of one of the club’s most glorious eras, but it also opens the door to new possibilities under Alonso’s stewardship.