When asked if the match against Arsenal could potentially be his last Champions League game in charge of the Spanish giants, Ancelotti offered a candid and uncertain response. "I don’t know. Maybe the club will decide to make a change. It could be this year or next year, when my contract runs out," he admitted. His current contract with Real Madrid is set to expire at the end of the next season.
Ancelotti, who has enjoyed a highly successful second spell at the Bernabeu, leading the club to Champions League triumphs in 2014, 2022, and just last year in 2024, emphasized his deep gratitude for the opportunity to manage Real Madrid. "The day I finish here I can only do one thing and that is to thank this club. It could be tomorrow, in 10 days or in a year and the only thing I will do is thank the club. I don’t care if my contract ends this year or next year," he stated, highlighting his unwavering respect for the institution.
The loss to Arsenal marks a significant setback for Real Madrid in European competition. It is the first time since 2020 that the club has failed to reach the semifinals of the Champions League, a testament to the high standards and expectations at the Bernabeu.
Adding to the uncertainty surrounding his immediate future, Ancelotti also indicated that he is unsure whether he will still be at the helm when Real Madrid participates in the upcoming Club World Cup scheduled for June. This prestigious tournament brings together the champions from each of the six FIFA confederations.
Furthermore, when directly questioned about whether he felt he was still the most suitable coach for Real Madrid at this juncture, Ancelotti revealed that he had not given any thought to that particular aspect. His focus appeared to be solely on the immediate aftermath of the Champions League elimination and the remaining challenges of the current season.
Despite the disappointing exit from Europe, Ancelotti expressed his belief in his tactical approach and preparation for the Arsenal tie. He stated that he wouldn't change anything if given the opportunity to prepare the team for the encounter again, suggesting his confidence in his methods despite the unfavorable outcome. His immediate priority now shifts to motivating the squad for their remaining domestic commitments.
Domestically, Real Madrid still have significant objectives to pursue. They currently trail arch-rivals Barcelona by four points in the Spanish league standings with just seven matches remaining. The clásico rivalry will also be renewed in the Copa del Rey final, set to be played in Seville, offering Ancelotti and his team a chance to secure silverware this season.
Addressing potential criticism and speculation about his role in the Champions League defeat, Ancelotti said, "If someone thinks I’m the only one to blame, it’s not going to change what I think in the next few days. I’m only thinking about preparing for the next game to stay in the fight for the league title and try to win the Copa del Rey." This statement underscores his resilience and determination to focus on the tasks at hand, despite the uncertainty surrounding his long-term future with the club.
In conclusion, Carlo Ancelotti's post-match comments following Real Madrid's Champions League exit have injected an element of uncertainty into his future at the club. Despite his legendary status and past successes, the experienced manager appears to be taking a pragmatic approach, acknowledging that the decision regarding his tenure ultimately rests with the club. As Real Madrid shifts its focus to the remaining domestic competitions, the football world will be keenly observing Ancelotti's leadership and the club's performance, with the question of his future at the Bernabeu lingering in the air.