Alonso to Real Madrid: Ancelotti makes feelings known on rumoured replacement
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Carlo Ancelotti has said what he thinks about Xabi Alonso with the Spaniard expected to replace him at Real Madrid (Credit: Imago)

Alonso to Real Madrid: Ancelotti makes feelings known on rumoured replacement

Seye Omidiora 17:32 - 10.05.2025

Carlo Ancelotti has said what he thinks about Xabi Alonso ahead of the Spanish manager’s reported move to Real Madrid.

Carlo Ancelotti has lauded Xabi Alonso's impressive achievements at Bayer Leverkusen, as reports suggest Alonso is the frontrunner to replace Ancelotti as Real Madrid boss.

Alonso confirmed his departure from Leverkusen after nearly three successful years, with multiple sources indicating he is close to succeeding Ancelotti at the Bernabeu.

The Italian manager is widely expected to leave Madrid at the end of the LaLiga season, although his team still has a chance to win the title ahead of Sunday's Clasico against Barcelona.   

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti (Credit: Imago)

What Ancelotti said about Alonso

Speaking at a press conference, Ancelotti acknowledged the Spaniard’s announcement and praised the job he has done with the Bundesliga club. 

"I saw [Alonso's announcement]," Ancelotti told a news conference on Saturday. “I’ve read he's leaving Leverkusen, where he's done a fantastic job. 

“All doors are open to him, because he's shown himself to be one of the best coaches in the world."

Carlo Ancelotti Xabi Alonso
Carlo Ancelotti and Xabi Alonso at Bayern Munich (Credit: Imago)

The former Los Blancos midfielder has been the favourite to take over from Ancelotti, having transformed Leverkusen from relegation contenders to Bundesliga champions, achieving an unbeaten domestic double in the 2023-24 season.

Despite the Bundesliga side not hitting the same heights this term, Alonso’s stock as not fallen, as evidenced by his expected move to the Spanish capital to replace the experienced Italian.

Despite being Real Madrid's most successful trophy-winning coach, including three Champions League titles, Ancelotti has faced criticism this season, particularly after their Champions League quarterfinal exit.

Los Blancos could still end the season with silverware, but must defeat rivals Barcelona to boost their prospects in the final rounds in LaLiga. 

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"There's a lot at stake," continued Ancelotti. "If Barcelona win tomorrow, they have more of a chance. If we win, the league opens up and anything can happen."

What’s next for Real Madrid?

After gameweek 35's clash with Barca, Ancelotti's troops face Mallorca, Sevilla and Real Sociedad in their concluding top-flight fixtures.